‘A beautiful soul going to be missed’: Extent of worker’s injuries laid bare as tributes flow for Paulo Mau’u and Aymen Elahmad
The full extent of injuries suffered by a critically injured worker in a suspected concrete pumping incident at a Meriton construction site has been revealed, as tributes pour in for both men.
The devastating extent of injuries suffered by critically injured worker Aymen Elahmad has been laid bare, as dozens of heartfelt tributes flow for both him and his co-worker Paulo Mau’u, who was killed in a tragic construction site accident in Carlingford.
Mr Elahmad, 30, remains in a critical condition after Tuesday’s incident, with his family revealing he has suffered “severe injuries including paralysis and punctured lungs” and is undergoing complex spinal surgery.
The devoted father of three young girls is now facing a long road to recovery, as a fundraiser launched to support him and his family garners growing community support.
“Aymen is the kind of person who would do anything to help others, and now we want to show him the same kindness and generosity he’s always shown,” the fundraiser reads.
Described as the sole provider for his family and a son his mother relies on, Mr Elahmad has worked tirelessly in construction to support his loved ones.
“He’s always been the one to provide for his family, working hard in the field, and now it’s our turn to come together to support him,” the appeal says.
Messages of prayer and support have flooded social media, with many offering heartfelt Duas for Mr Elahmad’s survival.
“InshAllah you make it out of this, Aymen. You’re in our Duas — Bi Izinillah.”
Meanwhile, Mr Mau’u, 40, is being remembered as a “beautiful soul” and positive presence on site after he died from critical injuries sustained in the same incident.
The two men were working at a Meriton construction site on Pennant Hills Rd about 9am Tuesday when tragedy struck in a suspected concrete pumping accident.
Emergency crews arrived to find both men critically injured. Mr Mau’u was rushed to Westmead Hospital but died a short time later. Mr Elahmad was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.
The tragedy has led to an enormous outpouring from the tight-knit construction community, with friends and co-workers remembering Mr Mau’u for his warmth and energy.
Workers on the site — the same one that was the subject of a major safety scare in June, when a crane broke away from its mounting and forced the evacuation of 350 workers and 200 residents — paid tribute on Wednesday by holding a moment of silence in honour of Mr Mau’u.
“Rest in peace brother. No words because I’m really hurt Paulo Mau’u — never forgot u brother,” Sione Latu said.
“My condolences to the Mau’u family for the tragic loss of Paulo who went to work and never went home yesterday,” Talaakoni Tukulolo Musika wrote.
“Also to our other brother who is fighting for life in the hospital — may God intervene in this tragic situation. Never take life for granted.”
Others remembered Paulo for his good vibes and generosity.
“We never really know when the last time you see someone is the ‘last time’,” Tedy Rose said.
“RIP ma uso Paulo Mau’u. Couldn’t believe the news, will forever miss your good vibes and energy. Love ya ma uso. You truly will be missed.”
“RIL Paulo Mau’u — a beautiful soul going to be missed,” Jenn Misifosa added.
A video shared on social media showed colleagues gathering in solemn silence at the Carlingford construction site on Wednesday morning to honour the fallen worker.
The local community has also rallied around Mr Elahmad, with a heartfelt message widely shared online calling for prayers.
“#SincereDua | Keep our brother in your Dua. Ayman Elahmad has been involved in a serious work accident today and we request desperately for everyone’s dua. May Allah (SWT) grant him full shifa.”
“O Allah, the Lord of mankind, remove the difficulty and bring about healing. You are the Healer. There is no healing except Your healing — a healing that leaves no trace of illness. Ameen.”
Meriton, the site’s developer, released a statement confirming the fatality and extended its condolences.
“We are devastated by this loss and are doing everything we can to support those affected,” the company said.
“The safety and wellbeing of everyone on our sites is our highest priority.”
NSW Police have established a crime scene and SafeWork NSW is investigating. A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Do you have a story for The Daily Telegraph? Message 0481 056 618 or email tips@dailytelegraph.com.au
More Coverage
Originally published as ‘A beautiful soul going to be missed’: Extent of worker’s injuries laid bare as tributes flow for Paulo Mau’u and Aymen Elahmad
