The death happened Thursday night at a Hilton property near the Orange County Convention Center.
ORLANDO, Fla. — A hotel worker died Thursday night at the Hilton Orlando after an industrial-sized dryer fell or trapped him in a work area, authorities said.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were called around 9 p.m. to the hotel at 6001 Destination Parkway. The property is near International Drive and the Orange County Convention Center, a major hub for visitors and large events.
Deputies found a man in his 30s beneath the dryer when they arrived. Orange County Fire Rescue crews responded and pulled him from under the equipment. Officials said he died at the scene. His name had not been released Friday pending further notification.
Investigators have not said what caused the dryer to fall or how long the worker was trapped. They also have not said whether anyone else was nearby when the incident happened. No criminal charges had been announced, and officials described the case as an active death investigation.
Federal workplace safety officials are also reviewing the incident. OSHA investigations can include interviews, equipment inspections and a review of training and maintenance records. The agency had not released a timeline for findings Friday.
A Hilton Orlando spokesperson said the hotel was saddened by the death and was supporting those affected. The statement offered condolences but did not describe the work area, the equipment involved or the worker’s job duties.
The death remains under review by local deputies and OSHA. Officials said more information will be released when it becomes available.
Author note: Last updated April 24, 2026.