Calgary plumbing firm to pay $330,000 for accident that fatally buried employee

Liam Johnston died while repairing a sewer line in an alley in the northwest community of Charleswood on behalf of Mr. Mike's Plumbing

A Calgary plumbing contractor whose worker died when a trench collapsed on him will have to pay $330,000 for violating occupational health and safety laws. Mr. Mike’s Plumbing Ltd. pleaded guilty to one count of failing to ensure the health and safety of a worker for the June 8, 2023 incident, though the crown withdrew 10 other counts. Liam Johnston, who was 27, died while repairing a sewer line in an alley in the northwest community of Charleswood on behalf of Mr. Mike’s Plumbing.

A large amount of earth and retaining wall cinder blocks buried Johnston, who was on a ladder during the repairs. He was doing sewer line repairs in the 2600 block of 34 Ave. N.W. when the trench caved in. In June, 2023, the Calgary Fire Department said the hole was dug the day before it collapsed, and that material from “a steep slope above” collapsed onto Johnston.

His girlfriend at the time, Emily Gofton, said Johnston was concerned about his safety and had spoken with the company before visiting the site. She alleged he still didn’t have proper equipment on the day of the repairs. She described the Waterloo, Ont.

native as an incredible, compassionate person who always put others ahead of himself and loved the outdoors. In December, 2025, Calgary Police determined there wasn’t sufficient evidence to criminally charge the company which had initially pleaded not guilty to all the charges. But ultimately, the company was ordered to pay $115,000 fine that includes a victim surcharge and another $215,000 to the Injury Prevention Centre.

“The centre will conduct a province-wide safety awareness campaign to empower young workers to recognize hazards, speak up about unsafe work and help prevent workplace injuries through targeted education, industry collaboration and a shared commitment to safer workplaces,” Occupational Health and Safety said in a press release. Just prior to the fine being announced, Gofton said she was disappointed 10 counts were dropped against Mr. Mike’s following their guilty plea. “(It’s) beyond frustrating and sad...but because of the case law and regulations around these types of charges, nothing significant is being done,” she stated in a social media post.

“From what we do know, (it’s) a slap in the face to us and to Liam’s life.” The crown and company have up to 30 days to appeal the conviction or penalty. BKaufmann@postmedia.com X: @BillKaufmannjrn Catch up with the day’s headlines, curated by our editors and delivered to your email inbox at lunchtime on every business day.

Sign up now for the Calgary Herald Noon News Roundup.