Robert R. Franklin, 71, of Celebration, Florida, was identified as the victim after emergency crews were called to the theater in the City of Reading at 11:36 a.m., according to Berks County Coroner Matthew J. Stitzel.
Franklin was working above the ceiling as an independent contractor during theater renovations when he fell through a drop ceiling, falling about 50 feet, the coroner’s office said.
He was pronounced dead at 11:57 a.m., authorities said.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was notified and responded to the scene, according to the release.
An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, May 7, at 10 a.m. at Reading Hospital and will be conducted by forensic pathologist Dr. Neil Hoffman, officials said.
The Berks County Coroner’s Office said it was assisted at the scene by the Reading Police Department and Reading Fire Department.
Details about Franklin’s life were not immediately available. His loved ones are invited to share information with Daily Voice by emailing [email protected].
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