Ohio Father Found Dead in CVS Trash Compactor

Investigation underway after 34-year-old contractor discovered inside store's compactor

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 34-year-old Ohio father of two, Andrew 'Andy' Strand, was found dead inside a trash compactor at a CVS drugstore in Shaker Heights, Ohio, on Wednesday. The discovery was made after his wife tracked his cell phone location when he failed to return home from work.

Why it matters

The circumstances surrounding Strand's death highlight the potential dangers faced by workers performing contract work, even in seemingly routine environments. The swift action taken by his wife in tracking his location underscores the importance of communication and vigilance in ensuring worker safety.

The details

Strand, of Brunswick, Ohio, was working as a contractor at the CVS on Chagrin Boulevard. His wife contacted the Shaker Heights Police Department just before 10 p.m. Wednesday after becoming concerned when he did not return home as expected. Police searched the premises and found Strand deceased inside the trash compactor. The Cuyahoga County medical examiner is currently working to determine the cause and manner of death, and the Shaker Heights Police Department is cooperating with CVS in the investigation.

  • On Wednesday, Strand was found dead inside the CVS trash compactor.
  • Just before 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Strand's wife contacted the police after he failed to return home from work.

The players

Andrew 'Andy' Strand

A 34-year-old Ohio father of two who was working as a contractor at the CVS store where he was found dead.

Shaker Heights Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating Strand's death.

Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner

The office working to determine the cause and manner of Strand's death.

CVS

The drugstore chain where Strand was working as a contractor and where his body was found.

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What’s next

The Shaker Heights Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Strand's death, and the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner is working to determine the cause and manner of his death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of workplace safety, particularly for contract workers, and the need for vigilance and communication to ensure the well-being of all employees, even in seemingly routine environments.