KERSEY - The Elk County Coroner has released the autopsy findings in the death of Greentree Landfill employee William Pierce.
Coroner Michelle Muccio said Pierce died from compression asphyxiation due to environmental entrapment. Muccio added that the death has been ruled accidental.
Pierce, 49, of DuBois was pronounced dead Friday, nearly 48 hours after he got trapped in a landslide at the Greentree facility Wednesday.
Pierce worked at the location for 18 years and was also a lifelong member of the Oklahoma Civilian Defense Fire Company in Sandy Township, joining in 1994.
"If you ever called him William, that would be really unique. He went by the nickname "Jup," which was short for Jupiter," Deputy fire chief Dana Smith said. "He was a big man and he always teased he was as round as Jupitor, so that's how he got the nickname. He'll be sadly missed."
Smith said Pierce was most involved in planning their country western music night fundraisers.
A visitation will take place Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Goble Baronick Funeral Home. His funeral services will take place Wednesday.
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