A Urgent Rescue Operation is Launched Following Industrial Tunnel Collapse in Wilmington
In a startling incident on Wednesday evening, a catastrophic tunnel collapse occurred in the Wilmington area, leaving at least 15 workers trapped below ground, as reported by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
According to the LAFD, “As many as 15 tunnel workers have been reported isolated due to a collapse in an industrial tunnel of uncertain depth and diameter, situated approximately six miles south from the main response address, which serves as the only access point to the tunnel.” The LAFD provided this statement.
While no injuries have been confirmed thus far, over 100 LAFD personnel have been deployed to the scene, including members of the Urban Search and Rescue teams who are specifically trained and equipped for confined space rescues.
The incident unfolded around 8 p.m. near West Lomita Boulevard and South Figueroa Street, specifically at the 1700 block of North Figueroa Street.
The tunnel involved is part of the ambitious $630 million Los Angeles Effluent Outfall Tunnel project, a critical wastewater management initiative being constructed by Flatiron-Dragados. This tunnel stretches approximately 7 miles, has a diameter of about 18 feet, and descends roughly 450 feet underground, according to the LA Times.
Rescue teams have indicated that the workers are located as far as six miles from the only access point to the tunnel.
BREAKING: A tunnel collapse in Los Angeles, California has left up to 15 workers trapped. pic.twitter.com/U5AVBlMMZo
— The General (@GeneralMCNews) July 10, 2025
For more updates, see CBS News.
Authorities have encountered difficulties in establishing contact with those trapped, as the collapse appears to have disrupted communication lines within the tunnel.
The LAFD has mobilized extensive resources, including all Urban Search and Rescue teams, to the 1700 block of South Figueroa Street. Firefighters reported that the collapse occurred as far as six miles from the tunnel’s sole access point.
Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the city’s response, stating, “The City of Los Angeles has mobilized resources to the tunnel collapse in Wilmington.” She added that over 100 LAFD responders have been deployed and expressed gratitude to those involved in the immediate emergency response.
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