According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, a contractor named Duane Tabinski died on Friday morning due to electrocution. 

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The incident occurred along the route designated for the upcoming Chicago NASCAR Street Race scheduled for this weekend.

Who was Duane Tabinski?

Duane Tabinski was 53 years old. DUANE, a design, staging, and lighting company, was started by Duane Tabinski. According to the company’s website, DUANE has staged performances for well-known musicians including Bob Dylan, Toby Keith, and Katy Perry in addition to planning a variety of corporate events, both big and small. 

As per reports, NASCAR hired Tabinski to manage the audio setup for the pre-race festivities. His responsibility was to make sure the audio gear was set up correctly and worked during the pre-race festivities of the event. A witness claimed that he was hauling wood to help set up the event when he heard Duane Tabinski groaning.

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The man was injured at the 500 block of South Columbus Drive, close to Buckingham Fountain and the finish line. He was quickly rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for medical care, but he was declared dead as a result of his wounds.

The medical examiner’s office reported that the 53-year-old man’s death was officially attributed to “contact with electric wires,” and was declared an accident.

Reacting to the incident, NASCAR also released a statement, “On Friday afternoon, a contractor suffered a fatal medical emergency. We are coordinating with local authorities on this tragic incident. We share our condolences to the family and their loved ones.”

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His company, DUANE, also released a statement in a tweet, “The DUANE team is shocked and saddened to inform you of Duane Tabinski’s passing earlier today. He was busy doing what he loved, providing a top-of-the-line audio experience for the enjoyment of others. A very giving and caring soul, Duane will be missed.”