Update

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A member of a team contracted by the Mossel Bay Municipality to remove trees in Harry Giddey Park suffered a fatal injury on 23 October, while performing his duties.

Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management, Metro EMS, the police, Forensic Pathology Services and the Department of Labour visited the scene following the incident.

Mossel Bay Police confirmed an inquest docket had been registered and was being investigated after the 37-year-old man's death. 

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Kappie Kapp said the victim's name was known to the police, but could not be disclosed as all his family members in the Eastern Cape had not been notified.

"Preliminary investigation indicates that the victim was working under contract for the Mossel Bay Municipality, felling trees and bushes in Harry Giddey Park, when debris or tree trunk pieces allegedly fell on the victim." 

Kapp said he died of his injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

Mossel Bay municipal manager, Colin Puren, said the municipality's heartfelt condolences go to the family of the deceased. "We pray that they find comfort in this difficult time.”

The park was closed earlier in October for the removal of two blue gum trees.

The municipality said large branches, which fell during storms, had ruined a wooden bridge and damaged the fountain in the park. The trees were deemed unsafe, which necessitated removal. They will be replaced with indigenous trees.

It is estimated the park will reopen to the public on 6 November, upon completion of the tree felling.

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