Michigan Tree Trimming Company Suspended After Worker Dies

Traverse City Light & Power has suspended a tree trimming company following the death of one of its workers, who backed into a high-voltage line.

The Michigan city-owned utility says the suspension of Trees Inc. will last 30 days, while it awaits reports on the Aug. 7 death of Zachery Eldon Adams.

Executive Director Tim Arends tells the Traverse City Record-Eagle the utility has a duty to ensure the company is properly training its employees.

The Associated Press left a message Wednesday with Houston-based Trees Inc. It has a three-year, $440,000 contract to trim branches that get too close to overhead power lines.

The 23-year-old Adams of Osceola County was working on a pine tree when he was shocked.

The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating.