A personal jet hanger that was being constructed at Boise Airport (BOI) in Idaho, United States (US), has collapsed killing five people and injuring nine more.
Boise Fire Department confirmed that on January 31, 2024, at around 5pm local time, a big metal structure that acts because the essential frame of the hanger suffered a “catastrophic collapse”.
In addition to the three fatalities, five of the nine people injured are said to be in a critical condition at local hospitals.
It is known that those killed and hurt were all working at the development site. Some staff were said to be using a hoist or other elevated platforms on the time of the collapse.
A crane getting used to construct the brand new 39,000-square-foot Jackson Jet Center private jet hanger also collapsed through the incident.
After they arrived, firefighters worked to stabilize the structure and rescued multiple victims who were injured or trapped.
“Tonight, there was a catastrophic collapse of a metal structure at a construction site. First responders found a busy scene and worked to secure and rescue victims,” said Division Chief of Operations Aaron Hummel. “The Boise Airport, City of Boise, and all first responders extend their deepest sympathies to those impacted.”
BREAKING: Boise Fire and Police are conducting an enormous search and rescue effort at a constructing that collapsed near the Boise Airport. Multiple injuries have been reported. CBS2 crews are working to assemble more information now.
Video courtesy James Quintana. #idaho #news pic.twitter.com/M9xEa5IM61— CBS2 News (@CBS2Boise) February 1, 2024
Private jet company Jackson Jet Center which provides business aviation facilities and hangar space at Boise Airport described the incident as a “horrific event”.
“Tonight, our hearts exit to everyone affected by this horrific event, especially those with family members on site when this tragedy occurred. We’re immensely grateful for the rapid and skilled response of Boise Fire, Boise Police and Ada County Paramedics together with the expert care of our area hospitals,” a spokesperson for Jackson Jet Center said.
They added: “This occurred just west of our existing Jackson Jet Center at our recent 39,000-square-foot steel hangar under construction, where dozens of dedicated people were working on site. We have no idea exactly what caused the hangar collapse. Our focus now could be on supporting our team and partners during this difficult time.”
The names of those that died can be released by the Ada County Coroner’s Office pending notification of next of kin.