A plumber was rescued from what could have been his tomb beneath the Plaza Bonita Mall in National City after a dramatic five-hour operation by firefighters on Monday. The unidentified worker plunged into peril when a wall collapsed at a construction site, trapping him in an eight-foot trench, the local fire department reported.
The incident unfolded at around 1:17 p.m., prompting a swift response from the National City and Chula Vista fire departments. The victim remained "awake/conscious entire 5+ hrs of incident," according to an X post by the Chula Vista Fire Department, and was to be evaluated after being taken to the hospital. The concerted effort to safely extract him further saw the use of plywood to prevent the man from sinking any deeper into the hole, as the National City Fire Department detailed in a statement.
Today 1:30pm @NationalCityFD joined our US&R 53 & others to help extricate construction worker from 8’ trench that collapsed in, nearly burying him completely. Victim awake/conscious entire 5+ hrs of incident, now at hospital for eval. #trench #rescue #teamwork pic.twitter.com/EDnqhoDfy7
— Chula Vista Fire Department (@ChulaVistaFD) January 9, 2024
The accident scene is believed to be the site of the former John's Incredible Pizza at Westfield Plaza Bonita Mall. The details surrounding the collapse and the cause of the accident are still unclear, while the condition of the plumber remains undisclosed.
Firefighters used specialized techniques usually reserved for such treacherous scenarios to secure the plumber and bring him to safety. The National City Fire Department told CBS 8, "they used plywood to help prevent the man from falling further into the hole." The rescue showcased the skill and the undaunted spirit of teamwork among the first responders.
