Three workers lost their lives after a building under demolition collapsed on San Antonio Abad Avenue in Mexico City’s Cuauhtémoc borough. Rescue efforts lasted more than 18 hours, with authorities confirming the final victim’s death on March 10. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the collapse.
Timeline of the Collapse
- March 9, 2:00 p.m. – A three-story building located between Lorenzo Boturini and Alfredo Chavero streets in the Tránsito neighborhood collapsed during demolition work. The structure had sustained damage from the 2017 earthquake and was being dismantled.
- 3:00 p.m. – Authorities confirmed that the building was privately owned and demolition had been authorized. One worker was rescued alive and taken to Hospital General Dr. Rubén Leñero with multiple injuries.
- 5:12 p.m. – 6:31 p.m. – Search teams, including firefighters, civil protection units, and canine brigades, recovered the first body from the rubble.
- 11:39 p.m. – “Togo,” a rescue dog from the Mexico City Fire Department, marked another location. Hours later, rescuers found the second victim.
- March 10, 8:30 a.m. – Authorities confirmed the third and final victim had been located without vital signs.
Official Response
- Clara Brugada Molina, head of Mexico City’s government, stated that the collapse was unrelated to public works and emphasized that the responsible company must be investigated.
- The Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City (FGJ) will lead the inquiry into the causes of the incident.
- Myriam Urzúa Venegas, head of the city’s Risk Management and Civil Protection Secretariat, assured that families of the victims will receive full support.
Key Facts
- Location: Calzada San Antonio Abad, Colonia Tránsito, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City.
- Casualties: 3 workers dead, 1 injured.
- Cause: Collapse during demolition of a building damaged in the 2017 earthquake.
- Rescue Units: Firefighters, Civil Protection, ERUM, Navy personnel, and canine brigades.
This tragedy highlights ongoing risks in demolition projects involving earthquake-damaged structures. The investigation’s findings will be crucial in determining accountability and preventing similar incidents in Mexico City’s densely populated areas.
Source: Milenio
