Mequon barn roof collapse; 3 people rescued, 7 taken to the hospital
Mequon barn roof collapse, 7 injured
Several people were injured after the roof of a barn collapsed in Mequon late Monday morning, April 13, and OSHA is now investigating.
MEQUON, Wis. - Several people were injured after the roof of a barn collapsed in Mequon late Monday morning, April 13, and OSHA is now investigating.
Barn collapse in Mequon
Incident details
What we know:
According to Southern Ozaukee Fire and EMS, at about 10 a.m. crews responded to a report of a barn roof collapse on West County Line Road, near Columbia Drive, with multiple people trapped.
When crews got there, they found several injured people outside the barn and confirmed that three people were still trapped inside beneath collapsed debris. Firefighters initiated rescue operations and, with assistance from other agencies, successfully rescued all the people who were trapped.
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A total of seven people were taken to area hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to serious.
The homeowner didn't want to go on camera, but said that crews from a roofing company were working on the roof when it collapsed. He said he is praying for the workers' recovery. FOX6 has not heard back from the roofing company.
Mequon barn collapse
After first responders left, the federal government’s OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) was on scene investigating. Federal rules require that OSHA investigate when three or more workers are hospitalized.
OSHA on scene
What they're saying:
"This was a challenging rescue operation that required coordination between multiple agencies," said Fire Chief David Bialk. "Thanks to the rapid response and teamwork, all trapped individuals were safely removed."
FOX6 did speak to a woman who often rides her bike on this road, including the morning of the collapse.
"That’s very traumatic and devastating to hear. I certainly hope they have a quick recovery," said Angele Morris.
The Source: FOX6 crews responded to the scene. Southern Ozaukee Fire and EMS also posted an update on its Facebook page.