July 10, 2025 — Los Angeles, CA — A potential disaster turned into a story of survival after 31 construction workers were rescued unharmed from a collapsed industrial tunnel project in Los Angeles.

Authorities had initially feared fatalities when a portion of the tunnel gave way Wednesday evening. Instead, thanks to quick thinking and emergency protocols, every worker made it out alive.

Workers Trapped 400 Feet Underground

The workers were operating deep inside a $700 million wastewater tunnel, being constructed by the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts. The collapse occurred roughly 5 miles into the tunnel, which spans 7 miles in total and sits 400 feet below ground.

Michael Chee, spokesperson for the agency, explained that the collapse happened between the tunnel boring machine and the crew, who were working farther in—around 6 miles from the entrance.

Despite a wall of 12 feet of loose soil, the workers managed to climb over the debris and reach the boring machine. From there, they were transported safely back to the surface. Aerial footage showed rescue cages being hoisted up by crane.

Emotional Reunions Above Ground

Family members gathered near the scene, many in tears. Arally Orozco, who had three brothers working in the tunnel, described the moment she finally heard from one of them.

“My brother was crying,” she said. “He told me he thought he was going to die underground.”

The workers reported having to squeeze through narrow spaces during the escape.

Officials Praise Workers’ Calm Response

LA City Councilmember Tim McOsker applauded the workers’ training and preparedness:

“This is a highly technical, difficult project. And they knew exactly what to do.”

Mayor Karen Bass called the rescue a victory and said she feared the worst when she rushed to the scene.

“All of the men that were in that tunnel—rescued, up, safe,” she said at a press conference.

Tunnel Construction Paused Pending Investigation

The 18-foot-wide tunnel is designed to transport treated wastewater to the Pacific Ocean, running mostly under public rights-of-way. Authorities confirmed that no major injuries were reported.

Work on the project has been halted until the contractor can assess the cause of the collapse and verify the site’s safety before resuming.

For author: Staff Writer
Courtesy of: Forbes
Source: Original AP story