Sunderland’s Liebherr factory worker killed in 'tragic accident' named as inquest opens
An inquest into the death of a 52-year-old at a crane manufacturing plant in Sunderland has officially opened.
On Tuesday, October 27, emergency services received reports that a man had been seriously injured in a "tragic accident” at the Liebherr factory, in Deptford Terrace, Sunderland.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the 52-year-old died at the scene.
The Echo can now confirm this man was Anthony Ian Clementson.
An inquest into Mr Clementson’s death began at Sunderland Coroner’s Court, in Sunderland City Hall, on Wednesday, November 4.
The inquest was officially opened by assistant coroner, Laura Hopkinson, who began: “This is the formal opening of the inquest of Anthony Ian Clementson, born on 27 April 1974 and who died on 27 October 2026.
"Family members have been informed of this hearing and Liebherr has also been advised.”
Coroner’s Officer for Sunderland, Andrew Weighill, told the court how Mr Clementson was “working on a structure” at the crane manufacturing plant when he died in what was also described as an “unnatural event”.
A minor discrepancy surrounding the place of death was also mentioned in court.
According to Northumbria Police, Mr Clementson died in Wellington Lane, in Sunderland.
It is understood, however, that Sunderland’s Liebherr factory is located in nearby Deptford Terrace.
This is a matter the assistant coroner said would be reviewed as part of proceedings.
Mr Clementson was formally identified by a work colleague on October 27 in a statement taken by police.
Since then, scores of tributes have been shared in his honour.
One said: “20 years of friendship and genuinely some of the most memorable times of my life.
"Countless laughs and not once did we ever have a bad word between us – never.
"We shared many a passion, some not safe for work, but the love of bikes and cars being the most prominent.”
Another said: “We laughed till the end and I am privileged to have called you my friend.”
The case was adjourned to a provisional final hearing date of March 2027, although this date will be kept under review until all relevant enquiries are completed.
Liebherr and the Health and Safety Executive have been approached by the Echo for further comment.