Shortly after 9:45 a.m. on Monday, the Noblesville Fire Department (NFD) was dispatched to the 14000 block of Umber Avenue on a possible trench collapse.
The first units arrived six minutes later and found co-workers digging in an attempt to free the victim. Crews immediately began working to free the unresponsive victim trapped to his shoulders in the trench.
Witnesses stated the worker was installing a water line when the trench suddenly caved in. NFD extricated the worker after an extensive rescue operation lasting over two hours and involving more than 30 firefighters.
Photo provided by Noblesville Fire Department
Unfortunately, the victim was pronounced dead on the scene by Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison, who identified him as Shawn Young, 21, Elwood.
The rescue operation was led by the NFD Tactical Rescue Team. Its team members maintain a Technician-level Trench Rescue Certification and train regularly to be prepared for this type of emergency. This type of collapse is dangerous because the event happens very quickly, leaving a small amount of time to react due to the weight and pressure of the soil. Rescue workers used premade barriers and pistons to shore up the walls and prevent a secondary collapse.
Once secured, the walls allowed firefighters to enter the trench and begin freeing the victim. Paddack’s Wrecker & Heavy Transport supplied a Vac Truck, which firefighters used to help move loose dirt and soil away from the victim.
NFD worked alongside the Westfield Fire Department, Noblesville Police Department, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Paddack’s Wrecker & Heavy Transport, and the City of Noblesville Utilities Department.
All first responders send their deepest condolences to the Young family.
Photo provided by Noblesville Fire Department
This is unfortunate, I’m so sorry for the loss of your son/brother/friend. These crews need better training on cave in and collapses, soil is the worst…even after your trench is shored up, you need to continue inspecting it! I’m so very sorry!