31 workers rescued after Tunnel collapse in Los Angeles

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Thursday, July 10th, 2025

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LOS ANGELES, July 10 — At least 31 workers were safely rescued following a tunnel collapse Wednesday evening at an industrial site in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
The incident occurred in an 18-foot diameter underground tunnel under construction for municipal wastewater management, approximately 5 to 6 miles from the sole entry and rescue access portal. LAFD officials said the collapse happened at an undetermined depth during horizontal excavation work.
Preliminary reports indicated that the trapped workers managed to climb over a 12-15 foot pile of loose soil to reach coworkers on the other side. From there, they were transported in groups via tunnel vehicle to the entry point.
“This evening, we were lucky,” said LAFD Interim Chief Ronnie Villanueva at a press conference. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, also present, expressed relief: “We’re all blessed today. No one injured. Everyone safe. What started as a scary evening ended with a great outcome.”
More than 100 LAFD personnel, including specialized Urban Search and Rescue teams trained in confined space rescues, responded swiftly. Workers were brought to the surface in groups of about eight using a crane-hoisted cage. While it is unclear if this method is standard or part of the rescue protocol, all individuals exited without visible injuries.
At least 27 workers were evaluated on site by paramedics as a precaution. No hospitalizations were reported.
The tunnel project, part of a major wastewater infrastructure effort, is expected to be completed by 2027, according to local affiliate KABC. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the collapse.