Alaska Trench Collapse Fatalities
Two Workers Die After 13-Foot Trench Collapses During Septic System Work in Alaska
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Two workers died after a 13-foot-deep trench collapsed on them in Delta Junction, Alaska. Alaska State Troopers identified the victims as Paul Hebert, 68, and Jacquelyn Wilder, 71. They were digging the trench to install a septic system when the walls gave way.
The Rural Deltana Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene. Crews worked to clear debris and reach the two workers, according to Valley News Live. Both were found dead.
Trench Collapse Buries Workers During Septic Installation
The collapse happened while Hebert and Wilder were digging a trench for a new septic system. The trench was 13 feet deep — deeper than a standard one-story room is tall. At that depth, the weight of surrounding soil becomes extremely dangerous if the walls are not properly supported.
The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. local time, according to WMBF News. Emergency crews from the Rural Deltana Volunteer Fire Department arrived and worked to clear the collapsed earth. Despite their efforts, neither worker survived.
Who Were Paul Hebert and Jacquelyn Wilder?
Paul Hebert, 68, was an independent contractor working on the project, according to WALB. His wife, Lori Meek, remembered him as a devoted and passionate man. She praised his deep spiritual life and his love for playing guitar.
Jacquelyn Wilder was 71 years old. Few other personal details about Wilder have been released publicly. Alaska State Troopers confirmed both identities as part of their investigation into the incident, reported WOWT.
Trench Collapses Are a Leading Cause of Construction Deaths
Trench collapses are one of the most deadly hazards in construction. The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that a cubic yard of soil can weigh up to 3,000 pounds — as much as a small car. Workers caught in a collapse have little time to escape.
OSHA requires protective systems — like sloping, shoring, or trench boxes — for any trench deeper than 5 feet. It is not yet known whether such protections were in place at the Delta Junction site. Authorities have not said whether a formal safety investigation has been launched, according to WTOC.
Investigation Underway in Remote Alaska Community
Delta Junction is a small community in interior Alaska, southeast of Fairbanks. The area is home to many rural properties that rely on private septic systems rather than municipal sewer lines. Work on these systems often involves deep trenching by small crews or independent contractors.
Alaska State Troopers are leading the investigation. No charges or citations have been announced. The case remains under review, according to 13ABC.
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