Local News
2 workers killed after crane collapse in Merritt Island
MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. — Two construction workers have tragically died following a crane collapse at a job site on Borman Drive in Merritt Island, Brevard County officials confirmed on Wednesday.
According to Tod Goodyear, spokesperson for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), emergency responders were called to the scene shortly after the incident occurred.
Two individuals were transported to a nearby hospital, where both were later pronounced deceased.
Authorities have not released the victims’ names, pending notification of next of kin.
The exact cause of the crane collapse remains under investigation, and officials have not yet disclosed details about the nature of the construction project or the circumstances leading to the incident.
Notably, severe weather conditions were reported in the area around the time of the collapse.
Storm Tracker Radar indicated that strong thunderstorms and wind gusts between 50 to 60 miles per hour were recorded throughout Central Florida on Wednesday.
A specific report from a site near Merritt Island measured a wind gust of 53 mph. However, officials have not confirmed whether weather played a role in the crane’s failure.
The construction site has been secured, and federal and state occupational safety officials are expected to join local authorities in conducting a full investigation.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) may also become involved to determine if any violations or safety lapses contributed to the tragic incident.
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward.
Updates will be provided as more details become available.
Local News
High-Angle Rescue in Progress After Teen Climbs 900-Foot KSDK TV Transmission Tower in Affton
AFFTON, MO — Emergency crews are conducting a high-angle rescue operation in Affton, Missouri, after a 17-year-old male reportedly climbed nearly 900 feet up a television transmission tower belonging to local station KSDK on Heege Road.
According to officials with the Lemay Fire Protection District, the call for assistance came in around 2:30 p.m. when witnesses reported seeing the teenager scaling the tower.
Responding units from both the Affton Fire Protection District and Lemay Fire Protection District quickly arrived on scene and established a command post at the base of the structure.
Fire officials confirmed that the individual, described as a 17-year-old male, was observed barefoot and positioned approximately 850 feet above the ground.
Authorities say they believe the teen may be under the influence of alcohol or another substance, though that has not been confirmed.
Specialized technical rescue teams are currently coordinating efforts to reach and safely bring the teen down from the tower.
The operation is described as extremely dangerous and complex, given the height and structural conditions.
Law enforcement personnel have secured the surrounding area, and roads near the tower have been closed as a precaution while emergency crews work.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.