LOS ANGELES – Thirty-one construction workers were successfully rescued after a partial collapse struck a major industrial tunnel under construction in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening, July 9, 2025. The incident unfolded in a section of the expansive tunnel project located near Wilmington, approximately 5 to 6 miles (or 9 kilometers) south of the sole entry point.
The tunnel, part of Los Angeles County’s critical Clean Water project, is designed to be 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide and is planned to extend for a total of 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) upon its scheduled completion in 2027. The collapse created a significant obstruction, effectively trapping the workers beyond that point within the subterranean structure.
The Incident and Immediate Response
The partial collapse occurred without immediate warning, creating a substantial mound of soil and debris inside the tunnel bore. The 31 workers, who were performing construction duties deep underground, found themselves cut off from the entrance by this unexpected blockage. Their immediate actions and the rapid mobilization of emergency services proved crucial in averting a potential disaster.
Initial reports indicated a section of the tunnel had given way, raising concerns about the safety of those working within the confined space. The location of the collapse, several miles from the entrance, added complexity to the rescue effort, requiring specialized equipment and highly trained personnel to access the trapped individuals.
The Rescue Operation Unfolds
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) spearheaded the comprehensive rescue operation. Recognizing the inherent dangers of a tunnel environment, the LAFD deployed more than 100 personnel to the scene. This large contingent included highly specialized units, most notably confined space rescue specialists, who are trained to operate in tight, unstable, and oxygen-limited environments like those found in deep tunnels.
The trapped workers demonstrated remarkable presence of mind following the collapse. They were able to orient themselves and assess their situation. Facing the large mound of displaced soil, which was estimated to be between 12 to 15 feet tall, the workers collectively managed to scramble over the formidable obstacle.
Once they had cleared the collapsed section, the workers were able to rendezvous with a tunnel vehicle that was operational beyond the obstruction. This vehicle then served as a critical shuttle, transporting all 31 individuals back to the tunnel’s single entry point where emergency responders were waiting.
Successful Extraction and Evaluation
The coordinated effort between the trapped workers and the LAFD rescue teams proved highly effective. All 31 workers were successfully brought to safety roughly an hour after the initial report of the partial collapse was received. Despite the harrowing experience, none of the workers sustained visible injuries during the incident or the subsequent rescue.
As a standard precaution following any incident involving confined spaces or potential stress, paramedics were on site to evaluate the workers. A total of 27 workers underwent medical evaluation by paramedics at the scene to ensure their well-being and address any potential effects from the incident or the environment within the tunnel.
Official Commentary and Project Status
The successful rescue drew comments from prominent local officials. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged the effectiveness of the emergency response and expressed relief that all workers were safe. Similarly, LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn commented on the positive outcome, commending the swift and professional actions of the rescue teams and the resilience of the workers.
The tunnel is a vital component of Los Angeles County’s ambitious Clean Water project, a long-term infrastructure initiative aimed at improving water quality and reliability for the region. The project is a significant undertaking, highlighting the complex engineering challenges involved in modern urban development.
Following the incident, work on the tunnel has been immediately halted. Project officials stated that construction will not resume until the contractor responsible for the project completes a thorough assessment of the cause of the partial collapse. Furthermore, work can only recommence once the contractor officially deems the site safe for personnel to return, ensuring the stability of the affected area and mitigating future risks.
Looking Forward
The incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with large-scale underground construction projects. However, the successful rescue underscores the preparedness and capability of emergency services in Los Angeles County, as well as the safety protocols that, despite the collapse itself, facilitated the workers’ survival and eventual rescue.
The focus now shifts to the investigation into the cause of the collapse and the necessary steps to stabilize the tunnel section. The delay will impact the overall timeline for the Clean Water project, but authorities have prioritized worker safety and a comprehensive understanding of the structural failure before any further excavation or construction proceeds towards the planned 2027 completion date.
