Worker Rescued After Trench Collapse in Girard Township

Lake City, PA – This afternoon at around 1 PM, first responders from Lake City Fire Company and West County Paramedics were dispatched for a reported trench collapse with one person trapped in the vicinity of Hall Avenue in Lake City Borough. A.F. Dobler Hose Company, Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, and Cranesville Volunteer Fire Department were also dispatched to assist.

While crews were responding, Erie County 911 advised that a trench had collapsed with a worker buried up to their head, with only the victim’s head visible. Workers at the scene were reportedly attempting to dig the individual out. Chief 560 requested Perry Hi-Way Hose Company be added to the assignment with its trench rescue resources. County also advised that the Erie County Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team was available if needed, while police recommending responders access the scene via Clifton Drive. Chief 560 subsequently requested the USAR Team be dispatched, noting that Engine 563 was temporarily delayed by a passing train.

Perry Hi-Way responded shortly afterward with its trench rescue trailer. While units continued responding, Erie County advised that police reported the victim had been freed from the collapse but remained inside the trench. Chief 560 requested all incoming units continue responding until he arrived on scene to better assess the situation.

A short time later, the train cleared, allowing Engine 563 to arrive. Chief 560 then advised that the victim had been removed from the trench and released all incoming mutual aid units except for Lake City Fire Company and West County Paramedics.

At the scene, firefighters and EMS personnel assisted with transferring the patient onto a stretcher before loading them into the awaiting ambulance. One person was transported by West County Paramedics 112 to a nearby hospital. No further information is currently available.