On Wednesday evening, a significant incident occurred in Los Angeles when a tunnel collapsed at a large industrial complex. Fortunately, at least 31 workers were safely rescued by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The incident took place in an 18-foot diameter tunnel that was under construction for municipal wastewater management.
The tunnel collapse happened at an underground excavation site located approximately 5 to 6 miles south of the only entry and rescue access portal. The depth of the collapse remains undetermined at this time. According to preliminary reports from LAFD, the trapped workers managed to scramble over a 12 to 15-foot tall pile of loose soil. They were able to reach several coworkers on the other side of the collapse, allowing them to be shuttled out using a tunnel vehicle to the access point located more than five miles away.
In response to the incident, over 100 LAFD responders were deployed to the scene. This included members of the LAFD Urban Search and Rescue team, who are specially trained and equipped to handle confined space tunnel rescues. Workers were extracted from the tunnel area using a cage hoisted by a crane. It is currently unclear whether this method is the standard procedure for entering and exiting the tunnel project or if it was a special measure taken for the rescue operation.
The workers were brought out in groups of about eight at a time, with most appearing to walk out without visible injuries. According to the fire department, at least 27 of the rescued workers are being evaluated by paramedics at the scene, but all emerged from the situation without apparent harm.
This tunnel project is expected to be completed by 2027, as reported by ABC News' affiliate, KABC. The completion of this crucial infrastructure is vital for improving wastewater management in the city, highlighting the importance of safety protocols during construction.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass visited the scene and expressed her gratitude towards the first responders. "I just spoke with many of the workers who were trapped. Thank you to all of our brave first responders who acted immediately. You are L.A.'s true heroes," Mayor Bass stated on X.
This incident underscores the risks associated with large construction projects and the importance of effective emergency response teams in ensuring worker safety. The LAFD's prompt action and the resilience of the workers involved played a crucial role in this successful rescue operation.
