Worker at the State Fair dies

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Tragedy has struck the South Carolina State Fair two days before the opening festivities.  Workers are mourning the loss of one of their own.

Sometime between 3:30 and 4 PM Monday, officials say 43-year-old Roger Thompson of Florida was working in a contained area near the space roller.  It is the newest ride at the fair this year.

Fire officials believe the power was on while Roger Thompson worked in the contained area when he was electrocuted.

He was transported by Richland County EMS, but he did not survive.

Coroner Gary Watts says grief counselors are being provided to the workers.

Just two years ago, a 49-year-old worker died when he was struck twice by a ride called the inverter.