Body retrieved day after fatal trench collapse at Bakersfield, Calif., job site
(UI) — A construction worker died after falling into a trench more than 20 feet deep at a site in west Bakersfield, the Kern County Fire Department said last week, according to KGET-TV (17 News).
Emergency crews responded around 2:44 p.m. on May 5 to the area of Stockdale Ranch Drive and South Wegis Avenue following reports of a severely injured person inside a trench. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene, according to KGET.
Due to unstable conditions and a significant risk of collapse, rescue teams from KCFD and the Bakersfield Fire Department, along with assistance from local contractor Griffith Company, worked overnight to recover the body. The recovery was completed around 2 a.m. on May 6.
No firefighter injuries were reported. The Bakersfield Police Department is leading the investigation, and the Kern County Coroner’s Office will release the victim’s identity.
Cal/OSHA has been contacted for further details on the workplace incident.
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