Corbin man killed in tree-cutting mishap

A Corbin man died early Monday when he was struck by a falling tree in the Virginia portion of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Aaron Cima, 25, was working for GKC Properties, a local company, as a six-person crew trimming trees near a historic area in the park when the accident occurred. According Chief Ranger Dirk Wiley with the National Park Service, a tree felled by the crew struck another tree that then struck Cima, causing his death.

“This is dangerous work,” said Wiley. “We brought in a professional team because of the delicate nature of the work. The crew had followed all the safety guidelines, which included a briefing, protective equipment such as helmets and chaps being worn, and a designated safety route.”

Wiley said that the positioning of the trees made the work especially tricky, so the Park Service decided to contract out the job. GKC Properties was the low bidder on the project.

The “historic area” is an old mining spot that Wiley said is located near a trail that has been closed. Once work was complete, park officials planned on reopening the trail.

“Mr. Cima was part of a large family, and we extend our sympathies. A tragedy such as this is always difficult, but especially during the holiday season.”

Work on the project has been halted pending a further investigation by the Park Service and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration.

Cima was a graduate of Corbin High School who also attended Lynn Camp High School for a short time.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Hart Funeral Home of Corbin. No visitation time or funeral date has been set as of press time.