Press Release 1

Firefighters rescue construction worker trapped in collapsed trench

Evanston firefighters used advanced training techniques and special equipment to rescue a 55-year-old Highwood man who was trapped after the walls of a trench he was working on collapsed earlier today.

Deputy Chief Thomas Janetske said the department received a 911 call shortly after 6 p.m. Thursday for a construction worker who was trapped when the walls of a trench he was working in collapsed. The man who was working at 2400 Sheridan Road at Northwestern University's Elder Hall, was conscious and speaking with rescuers when they arrived, but because of the weight of the dirt, he was unable to free himself from the 14-foot trench, Janetske said.

Firefighters using advanced training techniques along with special equipment to free the trapped construction worker within 26 minutes they arrived, Janetske

said. The man was transported by Evanston Fire paramedics to Evanston Hospital for evaluation. Officials remained on the scene while the investigation continued. The work was being conducted by sub-contractors working for Northwestern.