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WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2023 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) extends its heartfelt condolences to the city of Lewiston and the entire state of Maine in the wake of this senseless mass shooting. We were devastated to learn that the tragedy has claimed the life of IAM Local S6 member Peyton Brewer-Ross, an esteemed Local S6 Education Committee member and a dedicated Bath Iron Works pipefitter in Bath, Maine.
Brewer-Ross, 40, a five-year Local S6 member and BIW employee, graduated from a rigorous apprenticeship program in 2022.
The IAM’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), set up to help IAM members and their families deal with the mental side of tragedies like this one, has been dispatched to Maine.
“The Machinists Union, representing thousands of members across the state of Maine, stands united with the people of Lewiston during this difficult and trying period. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all the victims, including our own Peyton Brewer-Ross,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Peyton’s contribution to Local S6 and Bath Iron Works has been invaluable, and his loss is deeply felt within our union and the broader community.”
“Unfortunately, this horrible tragedy has affected our IAM family in a catastrophic way,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Brian Bryant, a Local S6 member and former Bath Iron Works pipefitter. “We will be there for the families, community and our members in every way needed today and into the future.”
“Peyton was not just a fellow pipefitter but a friend to many at Bath Iron Works,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, also a Local S6 member and former Bath Iron Works employee. “In times of crisis and tragedy, the strength of a community shines through. We commend the first responders and law enforcement for their quick and decisive actions during this incident. Their bravery and dedication to public safety are an inspiration to us all.”
IAM Local S6 issued the following statement:
“Peyton Brewer-Ross will be remembered for who he was, a kind upstanding member of our community.
“He was a graduate apprentice Pipefitter who worked hard and cared deeply for the people around him. His compassion for others caused him to join the Local S6 Education Committee where he did all he could to go above and beyond to support his fellow workers. His humor and good nature made him an excellent addition to our family of representatives and committee members.
“His love of cornhole, wrestling, and comic book heroes made him a colorful character to be around. He could often be heard quoting Macho Man Randy Savage, one of his favorite wrestlers.
“All those who have been caught up in this tragedy have been left with a painful void. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted, especially Peyton’s partner and young daughter.
“We will grieve his tragic passing and mourn with all who knew him, but we will remember him for his kindness, compassion, and strong character.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
