Parking garage collapses in Grays Ferry, Philadelphia; 1 dead, search for 2 others underway
Key Points:
- A partial collapse at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia parking garage under construction resulted in one death and two workers missing, with three others rescued and treated; the unstable seven-story structure requires careful deconstruction for ongoing search efforts.
- The collapse occurred when a subcontractor was installing precast concrete flooring and roofing segments, causing a progressive failure across all seven levels on the 30th Street side of the stair tower; the segments were manufactured offsite and subject to special inspections rather than standard ones.
- Philadelphia's Department of Licenses and Inspections has launched an investigation, auditing all contractors and subcontractors involved, while CHOP is cooperating and prioritizing worker safety; all permits and inspections were reportedly up to date.
- Road closures remain in effect on Grays Ferry Avenue between 29th and 33rd streets, including a nearby shopping center, as multiple agencies continue rescue and investigation operations, with officials urging the public to avoid the area.
- Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Governor Josh Shapiro have expressed condolences and support for those affected, emphasizing the ongoing active search and rescue efforts and commitment to accounting for all missing workers.