NATCHEZ — Natchez Fire Chief Oliver Stewart was hospitalized Wednesday following a woodworking accident that resulted in the partial amputation of his left thumb.

Stewart’s wife, Lynette, said Stewart was at home making wooden blocks in the backyard when the saw he was using slipped and severely cut his left hand.

“It really mangled the palm of his hand under his pinky finger, and they did have to partially amputate his thumb,” she said.

Stewart was transported from Natchez Community Hospital to Crossgates River Oaks Hospital in Brandon to see a hand specialist, Lynette said.

Stewart is expected to remain hospitalized for three or four more days, Lynette said, for antibiotic therapy to ensure he does not get an infection.

Stewart will also need a skin graft for his thumb, but that will done at a later date, she said.

“It is where he will still be able to use his thumb,” Lynette said. “He’s OK, and we’re just praying and hoping for the best.”