The family of trash collector Timothy Cartwell is struggling to understand how he died and why.

“Its devastating, it’s devastating,” Cornelius Cartwell, the victim’s brother, said.

Timothy Cartwell had spent 17 years collecting trash for Baltimore’s Department of Public Works.

However, Friday morning, his family raced to Shock Trauma after learning that Cartwell had been injured on the job.

Police say Cartwell was picking up trash along a narrow alley near Fulton and Baker Streets when he became trapped between the garbage truck and a wooden light pole.

He died Friday evening.

“It’s an accident and it deserves an explanation,” Cornelius Cartwell said.

Maryland’s Occupational Safety and Health Act Agency is investigating the case along with Baltimore City Police.

Cartwell’s family is calling for accountability.

“Were the safety measures followed? No they weren’t,” Cornelius Cartwell insisted.

Have a news tip? Contact Jeff Abell at jabell@sbgtv.com.