An accident at a Turlock auto body shop claimed the life of one of the employees Wednesday afternoon.

The deceased was identified as 41-year-old Ernesto Zazueta.

The accident occurred just before 4 p.m. Wednesday at the Discount Tire and Wheel shop at 210 S. Center St., the Turlock Police Department reported.

Zazueta, a mechanic at the shop, was working on an older model BMW when it slipped off a lift and pinned him underneath, according to the police department.

Other employees at the scene rushed to his aid and used floor jacks to lift the vehicle and pull Zazueta out from underneath, said Turlock Police spokesman Sgt. Steve Webb.

Zazueta had sustained severe trauma from the accident and was rushed to a Modesto hospital, according to the Turlock Fire Department.

Zazueta died at the hospital from his injuries.

The fire department said it is protocol to notify the Occupational Safety and Health Administration when there is a workplace fatality.

The auto shop was closed Thursday and Friday and will reopen Monday.

A rosary for Zazueta is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday and the funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday. Both services are at the Turlock Memorial Park Chapel at 575 N. Soderquist Rd.

To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.