Worker who died in collapsed trench in West Seattle identified

SEATTLE -- Authorities recovered the body of a worker who became trapped in a trench between two West Seattle homes.

Rescuers were called shortly before 11 a.m. to 36th Ave SW & SW Hanford St.

According to the Seattle Fire Department, the trench is next to a pathway between two homes. It is 10-feet deep.

The King County Medical Examiner's Office identified the worker as Harold L. Felton, 36. It said he died of compressional asphyxia. Manner of death was accident.

Officials say dirt fell on top of the worker, trapping him. They said he showed signs of life when first responders arrived, but he died before he could be freed.

The accident happened while crews were apparently working on a sewer line.