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Hillman Community Mourns as Local Man Fatally Injured in Tree Cutting Accident in Morrison County

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Published on August 09, 2025
Hillman Community Mourns as Local Man Fatally Injured in Tree Cutting Accident in Morrison CountySource: Unsplash / Max Fleischman

In a tragic turn of events, a tree-cutting job turned fatal for Daniel Dickman, a 57-year-old resident of Hillman, MN. According to the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, Dickman was working to dismember a tree at a private property in Pulaski Township when an unforeseen accident occurred. On Thursday, August 7, while Dickman was perched approximately 37 feet above the ground, a cut section of the tree swung unpredictably, striking the trunk with force sufficient to cause a devastating break. Following this, Dickman fell to the ground and was struck by a portion of the tree, resulting in his instant death.

The emergency teams, which included the Hillman Area Rescue Team and the Sullivan Lake First Response Team, responded promptly upon receiving the distress call at approximately 12:59 pm. Arriving at the Circle Drive residence, located about four miles east of Harding, MN, the first responders' efforts to save Dickman were in vain. Run by the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Shawn Larsen expressed sorrow, "Our hearts go out to Mr. Dickman’s family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," hailing the efforts of the emergency personnel involved.

Dickman's passing has resonated throughout the local community, with many offering condolences and support to the grieving family. The accident spotlights the inherent risks associated with tree cutting, an occupation that demands vigilance and precise execution. Further details on the incident and support services for the affected family are available through the Morrison County Sheriff's Office.

Alongside local response teams, additional support during the incident was provided by the Pierz Fire Department, North Air Care, and Onamia Ambulance. Sheriff Larsen made a point to acknowledge the rapid response and professionalism of these teams, saying in a statement obtained by the Morrison County Sheriff's Office, "We also want to recognize and sincerely thank all the emergency personnel who responded to this incident, as they worked with compassion and professionalism under difficult circumstances". Despite the communal effort, the untimely demise of Daniel Dickman is a harrowing reminder of the dangers professionals in physically demanding fields face every day.