HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Fire Department (HFD) responded to a construction-related collapse at the intersection of Main and Rusk in downtown Houston at approximately 12:19 p.m. today.
According to HFD, the incident was initially dispatched as a high-rise investigation but was updated to a rescue call upon arrival. Crews discovered a section of scaffolding and concrete had collapsed, with concerns that individuals might be trapped. The construction company supervisor on-site informed HFD that all workers were accounted for except for one person in an exterior elevator.
Firefighters conducted a search of the ten-story building, confirming that everyone else was able to evacuate without assistance. One individual, who had been in the elevator, was transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in stable condition.
Preliminary findings indicate that a piece of concrete from the eighth floor fell onto the elevator, causing the collapse. HFD temporarily cut power to the buildings in the area for safety while crews secured the scene. Concerns were raised about the structural integrity of the elevator’s counterweight and cables, requiring careful planning before dismantling the damaged equipment.
The force of the collapse displaced a nearby construction truck, which will be inspected to ensure its condition before it is moved. Additionally, the light rail lines near the site were disrupted, including the green, purple, and red lines, potentially requiring alternative bus services.
HFD emphasized the fortunate outcome, given the high-traffic downtown area and the time of day. Cleanup and repair efforts are ongoing, with no estimated timeline for completion. If you have any information, you are urged to contact the Houston Fire Department.
