LOS ANGELES – A major rescue operation concluded successfully on Thursday after a tunnel under construction collapsed in Los Angeles, trapping numerous workers underground. Emergency officials have confirmed that at least 31 workers were safely brought to the surface in a tense and complex rescue effort.
The incident occurred early in the day at a construction site in the metropolitan area. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded swiftly, deploying specialized Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams to the scene.
First responders worked for several hours to stabilize the collapsed section of the tunnel and establish communication with the trapped individuals. Cheers erupted from the assembled crews as the final worker was lifted to safety.
"This is a tremendous outcome, and it is a testament to the incredible skill and bravery of our LAFD firefighters and first responders," an official spokesperson stated at a press conference near the site. "Our primary mission was the preservation of life, and today, that mission was a success."
The rescued workers are currently undergoing medical evaluation. While many were able to walk away from the scene, several were transported to local hospitals for treatment of minor injuries and for observation.
The site has now been secured, and an immediate investigation has been launched by city and state safety officials to determine the cause of the structural failure. For now, the city is celebrating the successful rescue that averted a potential tragedy.
