Parking garage collapse caught on video in the Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia
In doorbell video obtained by Action News, you can see the structure collapsing floor by floor.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A doorbell video captured the moment a parking garage partially collapsed on Wednesday afternoon in the Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia, leaving one worker dead and two others missing.
It happened just after 2 p.m. Wednesday on the 3000 block of Grays Ferry Avenue.
The doorbell video obtained by Action News shows the tragedy unfold from several blocks away.
A roof segment fell and triggered a "progressive collapse of connected sections across all seven levels," Mayor Cherelle Parker told reporters Wednesday.
Parker said eight permits were required for the project and were properly issued, with all inspections up to date.
She said Precast Services Inc., a subcontractor on the site, was installing precast concrete floor decking and roof segments on Wednesday. After placement, a precast roof segment failed and fell to the level below, triggering a progressive collapse of connected sections across all seven levels.
Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson said three people were rescued when crews arrived at the scene. One victim was taken to an area hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. Two others were treated and released.
Crews are continuing to search for two additional people believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
Thompson said the building is unstable and so they need to take it apart in order to search the entire structure.
The parking garage is owned by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and all required permits were properly issued and inspections were up to date, according to Parker. She said the city will investigate the collapse.
The hospital said in a statement that it is prioritizing the construction workers' safety and working closely with the city and its construction partners.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said his office is supporting the rescue effort.
The identities of those involved have not been released. Action News has learned that at least some of the workers are with the Ironworkers Local 401 union in Philadelphia.
Drone 6 video showed a large pile of debris on one side of the structure, along with significant cracks running down a corner of the building. First responders have focused their search efforts on the lower levels of the garage, specifically a stairwell.
Officials have expressed concern that the remaining structure could collapse, prompting closures in the surrounding area. Heavy equipment is expected to help with debris removal.
The massive effort is expected to continue through Thursday.
