A privately owned hangar under construction at Boise Airport collapsed at 5 p.m. on Jan. 31, fatally injuring three people, who died on scene. Nine others were injured. Five were listed in critical condition and receiving care at local hospitals. The Boise Fire Department issued a news release providing information about the incident.
“Tonight, there was a catastrophic collapse of a metal structure at a construction site. First responders found a hectic scene and worked to secure and rescue victims,” said Division Chief of Operations Aaron Hummel. “The Boise Airport, City of Boise, and all first responders extend their deepest sympathies to those impacted.”
The investigation into what caused the collapse is ongoing. OSHA is investigating. No city-owned buildings were impacted by this incident and there was no impact to Boise Airport operations.
Due to the nature of the collapse, first arriving fire crews worked to stabilize the scene and performed multiple victim rescues during their response. In addition to the Boise Fire Department, Boise Police, Gowen Field Fire Department, and Ada County Paramedics responded to this incident. The response included eight fire engines, three ladder trucks, two safety officers, two battalion chiefs, one division chief, a heavy rescue unit, and a dozen ambulances.