Emergency personnel rushed to the site following reports of a building collapse near Boise Airport on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, in Boise, Idaho, according to authorities. (Photo by Terra Furman via AP)
In Boise, Idaho, a construction hangar at the local airport collapsed on Wednesday, resulting in injuries to approximately a dozen individuals, according to authorities. The incident unfolded around 5 p.m. at a private business within the Boise Airport premises. Boise Fire Department Operations Chief Aaron Hummel conveyed during a news briefing that the collapse was of a substantial magnitude, describing it as a "large-scale collapse" of the steel-framed building framework. Hummel refrained from providing details on the condition of the injured or confirming any fatalities, stating that efforts were underway to inform family members.
By Wednesday evening, all individuals present at the site had been identified. Hummel emphasized the chaotic nature of the scene and characterized the collapse as "catastrophic," emphasizing the extensive nature of the building's failure. While the cause of the collapse remains unknown, Hummel affirmed that it was a comprehensive event.
Reports indicate that the Boise Airport's regular operations were unaffected by the incident. Witnesses described a significant emergency response with numerous police cars, ambulances, and firetrucks near the airport entrance. Terra Furman, a motorist on Interstate 84, reported seeing a collapsed building resembling an 'M,' with a crane folded in half.
Hummel disclosed that some victims were on elevated platforms at the time of the collapse, necessitating specialized rescue efforts. He confirmed the collapse of a crane during the incident. Emergency and trauma teams at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Centre in Boise collaborated with first responders to treat patients from the scene.
The collapsed hangar was situated next to Jackson Jet Centre, a facility offering private airplane charters and maintenance services. Boise city permitting records revealed that Big D Builders, the contractor, had obtained permits for a 39,000-square-foot jet hangar project for Jackson Jet Centre, valued at $6.2 million. The project encompassed a concrete foundation and a metal building. Attempts to reach Big D Builders for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
Jessica Flynn, CEO of Jackson Jet Centre, expressed condolences to those affected and emphasized support for their team and partners. Flynn noted that the collapse occurred at the construction site of their new hangar, where numerous workers were present.
As investigations into the incident are ongoing, witnesses like James Quintana and Cody McGowan shared their experiences, expressing shock at the sight of the collapsed building and the extensive emergency response.
