Axis, Alabama– A roofing contractor was killed in a workplace accident earlier this week after falling more than 100 feet through a metal roof panel at an industrial site in Mobile County, according to the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said deputies responded to a death investigation on January 20, 2026, at an industrial complex located at 12400 Highway 43.
Investigators determined that contractors were in the process of replacing metal roof panels on one of the large buildings at the site. Two separate crews were working, one team on the roof handling deconstruction and reconstruction, and another on the ground assembling and staging materials.
The roof crew was using a crane and basket system to access the elevated work area. During the operation, one worker, identified as Johnny Fabbo Rosario, 38, was on the roof searching for a cutting wheel to finish cutting roof panels. Officials said Rosario was not wearing any safety equipment at the time.
While moving across the roof, Rosario reportedly stood up and stepped onto a panel that had already been partially cut along a seam. The weakened panel gave way, causing him to fall approximately 101 feet through the roof and into the building below, where he struck a metal staircase.
The fall resulted in a severe head laceration, which ultimately proved fatal.
The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation and ruled the incident an accidental death.
