Rome's Historic Tower Crashes Down During Renovations, Trapping and Harming Workers
A historic fortress in central Rome partly crashed down on two occasions during restoration, trapping a worker on an upper floor and harming another.
Initial Incident Events
Descending rubble from the initial structural failure of the Torre dei Conti, that happened just after 11:30 a.m., struck a elderly construction worker. He was transported to San Giovanni hospital in serious condition, but officials later indicated his wounds were not fatal.
Emergency Efforts and Second Collapse
As many of visitors and passersby observing, rescue teams saved several other workers from scaffolding on the 29-meter structure. In the midst of the operation, around 1 p.m., an internal section of the tower gave way, leaving a worker trapped above ground.
Our efforts are focused to rescue him alive but the circumstances is difficult because of the risk of further collapses,” stated a national fire department representative.
Eyewitness Accounts
Bystanders reported hearing a loud bang and observing plumes of debris. An individual stated, “I saw a laborer fall.”
A different observer, employed in a nearby gelato shop, mentioned she listened to repeated bangs in quick succession. “I was working and then I heard some similar to falling, and then I observed the tower fall in a slanted manner,” she said.
Emergency Actions
Rescue crews used a drone to fly through a window and inspect the site. A laborer present at the moment of the initial incident said he got out from a ledge.
“It was not safe. I just want to return home,” said the man, pale debris covering his uniform.
Location Cordoned Off
The vicinity around the Roman Forum and a central plaza, typically continuously crowded with visitors and traffic, has been cordoned off. Local and national authorities arrived at the location.
Background Context
The medieval tower was built in the 1200s as a fortified residence for a influential clan. It was damaged in an earthquake in 1349 and experienced structural failures in the 1600s.
The renovation project are being financed by money from the European Union’s post-COVID recovery fund.