Two Rescued in Kansas Trench Collapse

Sept. 27, 2005
Emergency workers this afternoon were trying to rescue two men trapped in a trench that collapsed in Johnson County.

Emergency workers this afternoon rescued two men who were trapped in a trench that collapsed near 164th and Switzer streets.

Overland Park Deputy Fire Chief Mike Casey said the two workers were trapped chest-deep, but they were alert and talking with rescuers as they worked to free the men.

Both men were freed by 3:30 p.m. and were being taken by ambulance to an area hospital.

Few details were available on the accident this afternoon.

Authorities were called about 1:45 p.m. A residential development is in the early stages of construction, officials said, and the men might have been laying sewer or water pipes. The trench was about 20 feet deep, officials said.

Firefighters, including some with expertise in trench rescues, were on the scene from Overland Park, Consolidated District No. 2 and Olathe.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!