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📍 Los Angeles, July 9, 2025 — At least 15 workers are trapped following the collapse of a large industrial tunnel in the Wilmington neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The incident occurred around 8 p.m. at a construction site near South Figueroa Street, part of the $630.5 million Effluent Outfall Tunnel project commissioned by the L.A. County Sanitation District.
🚨 Rescue Operations
- Over 100 LAFD personnel, including Urban Search and Rescue teams, have been deployed to the scene.
- The trapped workers are located up to six miles from the tunnel’s only access point, complicating rescue efforts.
- Specialized crews trained in confined space tunnel rescue are working to reach those inside.
- No injuries have been confirmed as of early Thursday morning.
📡 Communication Challenges Authorities have not been able to contact the trapped workers directly, and the collapse appears to have damaged communication lines within the tunnel. Aerial footage showed some workers being lifted to the surface via crane, though officials have not confirmed the total number rescued.
🛠️ Project Details The tunnel, approximately 7 miles long, 18 feet wide, and located 450 feet underground, was scheduled for completion in 2025, with full project delivery by 2027.
The situation remains fluid, and LAFD has requested media helicopters maintain distance to avoid interfering with radio communications.