Ikea Reading Contractor Dies In 'Workplace Accident' As Thames Valley Police Launch Investigation

The newly-opened store was closed on Wednesday morning.

A contractor died at an Ikea store in Reading in the early hours of Wednesday morning, leading to the store’s closure.

Emergency services were called to the hypermarket in Pincents Lane at about 2.30am and hundreds of shoppers were later turned away.

Thames Valley Police attended the incident which has not led to any arrests.

A man died at the Ikea store in Pincents Lane, Reading, on Wednesday morning
A man died at the Ikea store in Pincents Lane, Reading, on Wednesday morning
Bowyer/WENN

South Central Ambulance Service said they were called to a “workplace accident” at the newly-opened Berkshire store.

The fire service also attended.

Javier Quinones, Deputy Retail Manager, Ikea UK and Ireland, said: “We are very saddened to confirm that this morning, October 19, a contractor died in an incident on our site in Reading.

Customers were being directed away by members of staff as the store was closed on Wednesday.
Customers were being directed away by members of staff as the store was closed on Wednesday.
Bowyer/WENN

“The safety and security of everyone on our premises is always our highest priority and we are now supporting the Thames Valley Police with their investigation.

“The store will remain closed until further notice.

“Our thoughts are with the individual’s family at this time.”

Many offered their condolences to the man’s family on social media.

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