Photos: Firefighters, EMS providers rescue N.J. worker trapped in 10-foot hole

Sarah Dolgin
nj.com

HOWELL, N.J. — A worker helping to dig a footing for a deck at a Howell property was rescued after being trapped in a 10-foot hole on Thursday, police said.

The 26-year-old worker was covered up to his shoulders in dirt when police first arrived at the Carmine Way residence at 3:25 p.m., police said, who identified the contractor as Solid Concrete Walls Co., LLC.

Howell police officers used construction debris to make a barrier to keep more dirt from collapsing around the worker’s head and face. A trench rescue unit was called in to assist in removing the worker, police said.

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It took about three hours to remove the worker, who was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center as a precaution after being assessed by first aid and paramedics. Two first responders were treated at the scene for minor injuries sustained during the rescue effort, police said.

An EMT who spoke Spanish talked to the worker, helping to put him at ease during the rescue effort, police said.

An investigation into the incident has been turned over to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

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