How Did a 38-Year-Old Worker Die in a Tree-Felling Accident in Katong?

Quick answer: A 38-year-old Bangladeshi worker died after a tree he was felling at a private home in Katong, Singapore, toppled at its base and brought him down with it on 13 October 2026.

Key facts

• What: Workplace accident — tree topples during tree-felling works
• Where: A private home in Katong, Singapore
• When: 13 October 2026
• Reported toll: 1 dead
• Status: Police and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) investigating — no foul play suspected at this stage

What happened

The man was in the middle of tree-felling works at a private home in Katong when the tree toppled at its base, according to the Ministry of Manpower. He fell with the tree.

He was taken unconscious to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, where he later died.

The investigation

Police said that, based on preliminary investigations, no foul play is suspected. Both the police and MOM are investigating the accident.

The worker was employed by Soh & Tan Enterprises. The company has been instructed to stop all tree-felling work while the investigation continues.

What the authorities say about tree-felling safety

MOM said employers should ensure that a suitable assessment of the tree and the felling method is carried out before work begins, and that tree-felling work is done by trained workers in line with established safety procedures.

The death comes after MOM reported in September that more people had died from workplace injuries in Singapore in the first half of 2026.

If you work at height or with trees

• Assess the tree and the felling method before work starts — never assume a tree will fall where you expect
• Use trained workers and established safety procedures for every job, however routine it seems
• Wear the correct protective equipment, including a safety harness where required
• Keep other workers and bystanders clear of the fall zone
• Know the local emergency number before you travel — our emergency numbers directory covers every country

Frequently asked questions

Who died in the Katong tree-felling accident?

A 38-year-old Bangladeshi worker employed by Soh & Tan Enterprises. He died after a tree he was felling toppled and brought him down with it.

Where did the accident happen?

At a private home in Katong, Singapore, on 13 October 2026.

What caused the Katong tree-felling accident?

The tree toppled at its base while the worker was carrying out tree-felling works, and he fell with it. The exact circumstances are under investigation by police and the Ministry of Manpower. No foul play is suspected at this stage.

What has happened to the company involved?

The employer, Soh & Tan Enterprises, has been instructed to stop all tree-felling work while the investigation continues.

Where can I read the original report?

This article is based on reporting by The Straits Times: Worker dies in tree-felling accident in Katong.