Millville, DE (March 7, 2026) – A person suffered critical injuries on Thursday afternoon, March 5, during a tree-cutting incident in the area of Hickory Manor Road in Millville.
Emergency units were dispatched at approximately 1:48 p.m. after reports that a worker was struck in the head by a rope during tree-cutting operations. The injured person was located about half a mile into a wooded area, where muddy conditions complicated access to the scene.
Crews requested a utility terrain vehicle and a brush truck to reach the victim and assist with the rescue. Medical personnel reported that the patient had a serious head injury and was considered to be in critical condition.
At about 2:38 p.m., responders successfully transported the patient out of the wooded area and to an awaiting ambulance. Air medical transport was unavailable due to weather and visibility conditions, and the patient was taken by ambulance for further treatment.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts are with the injured person as they receive urgent medical care.
Risks Associated With Tree-Cutting Operations
Tree-cutting work can present several hazards, especially when ropes, heavy equipment, and falling limbs are involved. Workers often rely on ropes to guide or control the direction of falling branches or trunks, but tension in these lines can create sudden and powerful movements.
If a rope snaps, recoils, or shifts unexpectedly, it can strike workers with significant force. Head injuries are among the most serious risks in these situations, which is why protective helmets and safety procedures are commonly used during tree removal work.
Worksites in wooded or remote areas may also make rescue efforts more challenging. Muddy trails, uneven ground, and limited vehicle access can slow down emergency response and require specialized equipment to safely reach and transport injured workers.