Tragedy Strikes Construction Site
A multi-storey car park in Philadelphia owned by the Children’s Hospital has partially collapsed, killing at least one person and leaving two workers missing. The collapse happened Wednesday afternoon on Grays Ferry Avenue. Emergency teams responded quickly, rescuing three workers. Sadly, one died at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. The other two were treated and released.
Desperate Search Underway Amid Unstable Wreckage
Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson warned the seven-storey structure remains unstable. He said the search for the missing workers will be slow and painstaking.
“We’re going to deconstruct and delayer this building to safely reach the lowest levels,” Thompson said. “We won’t rest until everyone is accounted for.”
Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed the collapse started with a roof segment falling, triggering a chain reaction across all seven floors.
“Let me be very clear: We will not give up on those missing,” she said. “We will not rest until everyone is found.”
Hospital, City Officials Respond
The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) said it is prioritising worker safety and cooperating fully with city authorities. All permits and inspections were reportedly up to date.
“We are working closely with the city and our construction partners. More information will be shared as it becomes available,” a CHOP spokesperson said
Community Leaders Offer Support
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took to Facebook to express his condolences and prayers for the victims and their families.
“Lori and I are praying for those injured and the family of the person who died. My administration is in touch with local officials and stands ready to support rescue efforts,” Shapiro said.
The tragic collapse is now under investigation as rescue teams cautiously continue their search amid the unstable debris.
