An ancient fortress in central Rome partially crashed down twice while undergoing renovations, stranding a worker above ground and harming a second.
Initial Incident Details
Descending rubble from the initial structural failure of the historic tower, that happened just after 11:30 a.m., struck a elderly construction worker. He was taken to San Giovanni hospital in serious condition, although authorities later stated his wounds were not life-threatening.
Rescue Efforts and Second Collapse
As hundreds of tourists and onlookers observing, rescue teams rescued three other laborers from scaffolding on the 29-meter tower. During the rescue mission, at about 1 p.m., an internal section of the tower gave way, leaving one laborer stuck above ground.
Our efforts are focused to rescue him alive but the situation is difficult because of the danger of additional collapses,” stated a national fire department representative.
Eyewitness Accounts
Bystanders reported listening to a booming noise and observing clouds of dust. One stated, “I saw a worker fall.”
A different observer, employed in a close gelato shop, said she listened to repeated bangs in quick succession. “I had been working and then I listened to some like crashing, and then I saw the tower collapse in a diagonal manner,” she explained.
Rescue Actions
Firefighters used a drone to fly through a opening and inspect the site. One worker inside at the moment of the initial collapse reported he got out from a balcony.
“It was not safe. I only wish to return home,” stated the individual, pale debris covering his uniform.
Location Cordoned Off
The area around the historic ruins and Piazza Venezia, which is constantly packed with tourists and vehicles, has been closed to the public. City and government authorities arrived at the scene.
Historical Information
The Torre dei Conti was constructed in the 13th century as a defensive home for a influential family. It was damaged in an seismic event in 1349 and suffered structural failures in the 1600s.
The renovation project are being financed by resources from the EU’s post-COVID restoration program.
