News Summary
A construction worker is trapped in a deep hole at a Goodyear construction site, prompting a multi-agency recovery operation. Rescuers shifted from rescue to recovery due to safety concerns as soil collapses complicate efforts. Utility lines have added hazards, and authorities are investigating the incident. Public road closures are in effect as work continues.
Recovery Operation Underway After Construction Worker Becomes Trapped in Goodyear Construction Site
Goodyear, AZ — A serious incident at a construction site in Goodyear has prompted a multi-agency recovery operation after a worker became trapped in a deep hole, with rescue efforts ongoing as of Monday evening.
Initial Incident and Response
The incident occurred near 183rd Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road on July 28. The Goodyear Fire Department received the first emergency call around 1:10 p.m. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, with firefighters responding within six minutes of being dispatched.
The trapped worker was found in a 6- to 7-foot deep hole, with initial efforts focused on rescue operations. Due to safety concerns and the unstable state of the excavation site, rescuers did not make direct contact with the individual during the early stages of the response.
Multiservice Involvement and Complexities
Multiple agencies and utility providers have been involved in managing the situation, including the Goodyear Police Department, Phoenix Fire Department’s technical rescue team, and utility companies such as Arizona Public Service (APS) and Southwest Gas. Their combined efforts aimed to stabilize the site and facilitate the rescue.
As the rescue operations progressed, additional soil and debris collapsed into the hole, further complicating the challenge. Utility lines for gas, water, and communication services were identified beneath the excavation site, adding significant safety risks to the operation.
Shift from Rescue to Recovery Efforts
Approximately 30 minutes after the initial response, authorities shifted their focus from rescue to recovery efforts. This change was necessary due to the ongoing collapses and the unstable condition of the trench, making rescue efforts increasingly dangerous.
Utility lines below the excavation site posed additional hazards; these lines were subsequently diverted or shut off to facilitate the ongoing operation. Utility companies and rescue teams worked together to identify the exact locations of these lines before advancing further with the recovery process.
Safety Measures and Road Closures
To ensure public safety, Lower Buckeye Road was closed in both directions near the construction site, leading to significant traffic disruptions in the area. The closure is expected to remain in effect until authorities complete the recovery and clear the site.
Uncertain Circumstances and Ongoing Investigation
As of now, authorities have not released the name of the construction worker or provided details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. The specific type of construction work being performed at the time remains unknown, pending further investigation.
Official Comments and Next Steps
Goodyear Deputy Chief Jose Gonzalez offered condolences to the worker’s family and colleagues during a brief statement. Police and rescue officials continue their efforts to recover the worker’s body, working closely with utility providers to ensure utility lines are properly managed.
The recovery operation is expected to continue until the worker is safely recovered, and additional assessments are made regarding safety and site stability. Authorities are committed to providing further updates as new information becomes available.
Residents and commuters are advised to avoid the area until authorities confirm the situation is under control and the site is secure for public access.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- AZ Central
- Wikipedia: Construction
- AZ Family
- Google Search: Goodyear construction worker incident
- Fox 10 Phoenix
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction site safety
- KTAR News
- Google News: Goodyear construction site incident
- ABC 15
- Google Scholar: Construction safety protocols
- 12 News
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