Chicago construction worker killed, another injured after collapse, falls near UChicago Medicine Cancer Center, fire officials

CHICAGO (WLS) — A steelworker has died after scaffolding collapsed at a Hyde Park hospital, the Chicago Fire Department said.

The incident happened at the University of Chicago Cancer Pavilion project construction site on Maryland Street near 57th Street around noon, the Chicago Fire Department said.

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Officials said two workers were on scaffolding constructing the elevator shaft when they believed high winds caused the scaffolding to collapse.

The workers fell eight stories through a ground-level pit, the Chicago Fire Department said. Wind gusts reached more than 40 miles per hour Thursday.

A worker was found dead at the scene, Chicago police said. Another worker was sent to hospital in critical condition.

The deceased man was later identified as David O'Donnell, 27, of Oak Forest, by the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office.

Witnesses said they saw the scaffold wobble. It was attached to the building after the incident.

Both were employed by New Horizon Steel. Turner Construction is completing the project and a spokesperson released the following statement:

“It is with incredible sadness that we share that earlier today, two iron workers fell from scaffolding on our project. We immediately called emergency services who determined that one person had died at the scene. The second worker was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center This is an extremely sad day and we send our thoughts and prayers to their family members. friends and their colleagues during this extremely difficult time. The safety and well-being of everyone at our sites is so important to us. “We are working extremely hard to avoid days like this and have paused all activities. construction. Grief counseling services will be available to all workers on site to support them in the difficult days and weeks ahead. “

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration was on scene and began an investigation into New Horizon Steel. OSHA said it may open an investigation into Turner Construction.

The companies have no history of violations in Illinois, OSHA said.

Chicago police assisted in the investigation.