Police ID man killed in Mint Hill trench collapse

MINT HILL, N.C. — A man died Tuesday night following a trench collapse in Mint Hill, according to paramedics.

The incident occurred on Blackbird Hill Lane around 6:30 p.m.

According to authorities, 46-year-old James Mitcham, of Wingate, was in a hole in a sewer line 15 feet deep and 23 feet wide when part of the wall collapsed and pinned him against a crane bucket. Two other men working with Mitcham witnessed the incident.

Paramedics pronounced Mitcham dead at the scene.

One Grade Incorporated, a company based in Indian Trail, was on scene but did not comment.

According to authorities, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has been notified to see if there were work violations.

Mint Hill police and OSHA are continuing to investigate.

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WSOC