Deputies and federal workplace safety officials are investigating the death near Orlando’s tourist district.
ORLANDO, Fla. — A Hilton Orlando employee died Thursday night after he was found trapped beneath an industrial-sized dryer at the hotel near International Drive, according to Orange County officials.
The incident happened around 9 p.m. at the Hilton Orlando on Destination Parkway, near the Orange County Convention Center. The man, who was in his 30s, worked at the hotel. Officials have not released his name or said how the equipment came to trap him.
Orange County deputies responded to the hotel after a report of a worker pinned under the dryer. Orange County Fire Rescue crews removed the man from beneath the machine, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said the case remains under investigation.
The hotel sits in one of Central Florida’s busiest tourism corridors, close to convention halls, resorts and restaurants. Industrial laundry areas in large hotels often handle heavy loads of towels, sheets and other linens. Officials have not said whether the dryer was being moved, repaired or used when the incident happened.
OSHA confirmed it is also investigating. The federal agency reviews workplace deaths to determine whether safety rules were followed. No findings had been released as of Friday, and no violations or citations had been announced.
Hilton Orlando said it was mourning the worker’s death. “We are deeply saddened by the very unfortunate incident that occurred yesterday evening,” a hotel spokesperson said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected and remain committed to supporting them during this difficult time.”
Authorities have released few details while the investigation continues. The worker’s identity, the exact cause of death and the circumstances that led to the dryer incident remain unknown.
Author note: Last updated April 24, 2026.