BOSTON (WHDH) - Two workers were killed after a water main break flooded a trench where several people were working in Boston.
A private construction crew was working on a brownstone on Dartmouth Street between Montgomery and Tremont when officials said a water main break sent water into the trench, filling it up within moments. Several workers were able to escape but two could not.
According to Boston Police Commissioner William Evans, the hole was roughly 12 to 15 feet deep. Workers were unable to rescue the two trapped inside.
The Boston Fire Department confirmed Friday evening that both bodies have been recovered from the trench.
Witnesses described a panicked scene as water rushed into the street, with workers escaping and then rushing to try to save their colleagues. Workers were “visibly shaken” after the incident.
“Water was spurting out of the ground,” said witness Joyce Einslar. “We could see the workers running around in a panic.”
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The Boston Fire Department has requested a response from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).
Officials are currently investigating the structural integrity of the sidewalk and street.
Boston Police have confirmed that Dartmouth Street will be closed to traffic from Tremont to Warren and is expected to be closed through the evening commute. Police ask the public to avoid the area.
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