2 workers killed in crane collapse on Everett, Massachusetts waterfront
A large crane collapsed on the waterfront in Everett, Massachusetts on Friday afternoon, killing two workers. Skyeye was over the scene on Rover Street, not far from the Encore Boston Harbor casino, where the crane fell on a dock, and barge.
Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria said a cable snapped and the crane fell on workers cutting pipes off the dock. "Two young guys, you know 30s, 40s, working to provide probably for their families, lose their life at work," DeMaria said. "I'm sure when they left home this morning that wasn't even a thought."
One person died at the scene. Another was taken to the hospital with injuries and later pronounced dead. Their names have not been released. The body of one of the workers was removed from the crane hours after the collapse.
"This is a very commercialized space. With regards to any type of extrication, it does warrant a large amount of resources and technical expertise," said Everett Fire Chief Joe Hickey.
Crews dismantling former Exxon facility
The crews had been working to dismantle a former Exxon Mobil facility where tankers used to come in and offload. The work is in phase one of a yearslong, multi-million-dollar renovation to the waterfront.
"We are devastated to learn that two individuals from a subcontractor have died following a horrific accident at one of our job sites. We are actively coordinating with all relevant public safety officials to understand why and how this happened," said Charter, the contractor overseeing the work, in a statement.
DeMaria said it's believed that one person fell into the water in the collapse.
"It was a very unfortunate accident, our hearts go out, of course, to their families and those that work with them, that know them very well," said DeMaria. "It's a tragic scene."
Work paused at Everett site
Everett Landco, which owns the site, said work has stopped in the area after the fatal incident.
"We are working closely with public safety officials and the contractors performing the work to gather information and understand what happened," the company said in a statement. "All work at the marine dock has been paused while we ensure the area is safe for everyone on site."
The deaths are being investigated by the Middlesex District Attorney's office, Everett and state police, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Everett Police Chief Paul Strong said another crane will likely have to be brought in to remove the damaged crane so it can be investigated. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been notified.
WBZ-TV's Aaron Parseghian contributed to this report.