Two Die in Trench Collapse During Septic System Installation in Delta Junction

Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, August 2, 2026 —

Tragic Incident in Delta Junction

A septic system installation project in Delta Junction, Alaska, ended in tragedy on [Date – information not provided], resulting in the deaths of two individuals. Paul Hebert, 68, and Jacquelyn Wilder, 71, were reportedly digging a trench approximately 13 feet deep when the walls of the excavation collapsed, trapping them.

Emergency services responded to the scene following the incident. The cause of the collapse and the specific circumstances leading up to the event are currently under investigation. Information regarding the timeline of the digging operations and the exact location of the property has not been provided.

Details regarding the contractor responsible for the septic system installation were not immediately available. Similarly, information concerning permits for the work, any prior inspections, or potential code violations that may have contributed to the collapse has not been released.

The deaths of Mr. Hebert and Ms. Wilder highlight the inherent dangers associated with excavation work, particularly when proper safety protocols may not be in place. Trench collapses are a significant hazard in construction and related industries, often caused by unstable soil conditions, improper shoring, or vibrations from nearby equipment.

Further details regarding the investigation into this incident are expected to be released as they become available. The names of the deceased have been provided, but further information about their roles in the project or their relationship to the property owner was not disclosed.

Story summarized from the original created by Hannah Lee, Jonson Kuhn, Gray News staff on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.