Abstract: Employee #1 was working in the bottom of a trench that was 13 ft deep and 4 ft wide with vertical walls. He was attempting to remove a manhole cover when the unsupported trench walls caved in and buried him completely. Employee #2 attempted to rescue Employee #1 by jumping into the trench before temporary rescue shoring could be installed. Another cave-in occurred and Employee #2 was trapped by moving ground, which strained both knees. Employee #1 died of crushing injuries. Employee #2 was rescued by fire department personnel. The trench was not shored, sloped, or otherwise protected against collapse.