Los Angeles tunnel collapses, up to 15 workers may be trapped inside

A tunnel under construction in the Wilmington industrial area of South Los Angeles collapsed on the evening of July 9, potentially trapping up to 15 workers underground, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Rescue operations are ongoing, with no confirmed injuries or fatalities reported as of early Wednesday.

The collapse occurred around 8:00 p.m. local time during the construction of the Effluent Outfall Tunnel, a $630 million infrastructure project designed to carry treated wastewater to the Pacific Ocean. The tunnel stretches approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) and lies as deep as 450 feet (137 meters) beneath the surface. It has a diameter of 18 feet (5.5 meters).

The construction company, Flatiron Dragados, confirmed that several workers were inside the tunnel at the time of the incident. Some have since emerged safely using a rescue basket, and none showed visible signs of injury, according to LAFD reports.

More than 100 firefighters and technical rescue specialists were deployed to the site, including four Urban Search and Rescue teams. The collapse occurred deep within the tunnel, about six miles from its access point, significantly complicating rescue efforts.

Authorities have not disclosed the cause of the collapse. Officials say a full investigation is underway, and further updates will be provided during a scheduled press briefing.