DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – A forensic investigation is underway into a deadly crane collapse Sunday in Dallas when a severe thunderstorm blew through the area.
Investigators with OSHA are on the scene of the collapse this week. A 29-year-old woman was killed and five other people hurt when a crane from a nearby construction site crashed into the Elan City Lights Apartments near downtown Dallas. Wind speeds at the time of the collapse were just higher than 70 mph.
The crane operator, Bigge Crane Company out of California has sent a team to the scene to meet with investigators. According to the cranes specifications, it’s designed to sustain winds up to 90 mph.
The company has been cited by OSHA 17 times, including violations still being contested in a 2013 fatal crane collapse in Arkansas.
Bigge Crane Company released a statement Monday:
Statement from Bigge Crane Company and Rigging Co. Randy Smith Corporate Counsel
June 10, 2019
Bigge Crane and Rigging Co. is saddened by the accident involving one of its tower cranes that collapsed at a construction site during Sunday’s storms in Dallas. Tragically, it was confirmed by emergency responders that there was one fatality and others were injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with those directly impacted by this incident, their families and loved ones, and with those who suffered property damage.
Bigge supplied the crane and operator to the project as an equipment rental provider. The crane was not in service when the storm arose.
Bigge mobilized personnel to the site and is fully cooperating with the independent, third party, investigating authority (OSHA) who have yet to determine the cause of the accident. When authorized by OSHA, the tower crane will be removed and examined.
We will update this release as we find out more.
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