Healy man dies in tree-cutting accident

HEALY — An autopsy has been ordered for a 66-year-old Healy man who died as he was cutting down a tree.

Alaska State Troopers say Beryl James Palmer apparently died when the tree crushed him.

Palmer left his home at about 1 p.m. Friday driving a bulldozer and carrying a chain saw. He had intended to collect firewood.

Troopers at 1 a.m. Saturday received a report that Palmer had not returned.

Troopers and Tri-Valley Volunteer Fire Department responders launched a search and found Palmer around 6:30 a.m. Saturday.

No foul play is suspected.

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