Young contractor dies after trench collapses

A PORT Elizabeth contractor died when a 10m-deep ditch collapsed on him in Tromp Road, Bethelsdorp, shortly after midday yesterday.

Police spokesman Warrant Officer Alwin Labans said Xholani Selani, 22, was standing in the ditch when the side walls caved in.

"Emergency personnel were alerted by workers who witnessed the incident. It was a huge ditch and it took hours to dig him out," Labans said.

"Fire Department and ambulance officials were also called to the scene to assist."

Labans said the man had already died by the time his body was recovered from under the sand.

An inquest docket has been opened. – Gareth Wilson