Tree pins logger for 3 hours before rescue

MONROE, Ore. (AP) — A logger working alone spent more than three hours pinned by a tree two feet in diameter before rescuers arrived to cut him free.

Authorities say 65-year-old Dennis Brandt of Monroe was hospitalized in fair condition.

The Corvallis Gazette-Times reports Brandt didn't return home on time Wednesday afternoon.

A family member found him, and by the time medics arrived, a friend had cut the tree to free him.

Authorities said Brandt was using a chain saw to cut a fallen tree on private property when it kicked back and landed on his torso and hip.

Monroe Fire Chief Rick Smith said Brandt was wearing chaps, a raincoat and several layers of clothing, but he was damp nevertheless from being on the ground.

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Information from: Gazette-Times, http://www.gtconnect.com

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press