The identity of the tree trimmer who died after being trapped has been released by the coroner

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) – The Kern County coroner’s office has released the identity of a tree trimmer who died last week in east Bakersfield after becoming trapped under palm fronds.

Kern County firefighters found Fermin U. Ortiz Leiva, 55, unresponsive on a palm tree among palm fronds in the 800 block of Plaza Street on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at approximately 4:37 p.m

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Tree trimmer dies after becoming trapped under palm fronds in east Bakersfield

When firefighters arrived, crews found a tree trimmer tied to a tall palm tree beneath palm fronds about 30 feet up.

KCFD said the victim was unresponsive for about 30 minutes before firefighters arrived.

MORE COVERAGE: Rescue efforts end in tragedy for tree trimmer on Plaza Street

KCFD said the trapped victim was hidden among the dead fronds. Progress was made using a combination of precise cutting with chainsaws and brute force.

No one else was injured.

Levia’s family started a GoFundMe to raise money for his funeral and funeral expenses. If you would like to contribute, click here.