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
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.