31 construction workers rescued after tunnel collapse in Los Angeles
- Thirty-one construction workers were trapped in a tunnel collapse in Wilmington, Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles Fire Department conducted a major rescue operation with over 100 responders involved.
- All workers were rescued successfully without visible injuries, highlighting a successful emergency response.
On July 10, 2025, a significant incident occurred in Los Angeles, California, when a portion of an underground construction tunnel collapsed, trapping 31 workers inside. The tragedy unfolded in Wilmington, an area renowned for ongoing municipal projects related to wastewater management. Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) were dispatched immediately, resulting in a rapid and extensive rescue operation. The trapped workers managed to escape over a pile of loose soil, measuring between 12 and 15 feet high, in a race against time and potential danger. The tunnel collapse was attributed to 'squeezing ground,' a phenomenon causing the soil to deform significantly during excavation. This incident highlights the hazards associated with construction projects, especially those occurring several hundred feet underground. During the rescue operation, none of the workers were reported to have sustained significant injuries, which officials described as a fortunate outcome considering the circumstances. The complexity of the rescue operation was underscored by the fact that workers had to navigate through unstable ground conditions before being transported to safety. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed relief and gratitude for the prompt action of the first responders, whom she regarded as heroic for their ability to extract all workers alive. The incident occurred approximately five to six miles from the only entry point of the tunnel, complicating rescue logistics due to the distance. Following the rescue, a thorough investigation was indicated to determine the causes of the collapse and to ensure safety protocols are reevaluated. The LAFD gathered insights from the onsite engineers and workers to assess the structural integrity of the tunnel and examine future operational protocols to prevent such occurrences. This construction project, which has a budget of nearly $700 million, is part of a larger initiative to modernize outdated wastewater systems across Los Angeles County. Authorities continue to monitor developments as work on the project is set to resume after comprehensive safety assessments.