08/20/2026
MIRACLE IN MAPLETON
Tonight, the Mapleton City Council recognized members of Mapleton Fire Rescue, Mapleton Police Department, and Mapleton Public Works for their extraordinary response to the June 11 trench collapse on the south end of our city.
Background: A worker installing a residential sewer line approximately nine feet below ground was completely buried when the trench collapsed. Despite the tremendous weight of the soil, a small air pocket allowed the trapped individual to breathe and communicate with rescuers.
For more than 97 minutes, personnel from multiple agencies worked together through an extremely dangerous and technically complex rescue. Because of their training, courage, and cooperation, the individual was successfully removed from the trench alive and transferred to Life Flight.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Springville Mapleton Public Safety Dispatch, Central Utah 911, Life Flight, the Utah County Special Response Team, and the trench rescue specialists and resources from Provo, American Fork, Pleasant Grove, Lehi, Spanish Fork, Springville, and Utah County Fire.
This outcome was not the result of one person, one agency, or one piece of equipment. Every person had a role. Every role mattered. Every second mattered.
Tonight, we proudly recognized these dedicated public servants for making a difference and saving a life.
A true Miracle in Mapleton