A crane collapses kills 2 at a Florida construction site, officials say
MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. — Two people died Wednesday after a giant crane collapsed at the construction site for a new central Florida hospital, officials said.
The collapse occurred at the site of the new Cape Canaveral Hospital in Merritt Island, which is on the Atlantic coast about 60 miles (90 kilometers) east of Orlando.
Two people were transported to a nearby hospital, where they later died, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tod Goodyear said. Officials didn't immediately identify the victims.
The area had been hit by rain and strong winds Wednesday afternoon, but the exact cause of the collapse was under investigation.
The Cape Canaveral Hospital began construction last year and is expected to open to the public in 2027. It will replace the existing Cape Canaveral Hospital in nearby Cocoa Beach.
The hospital is operated by Health First, a not-for-profit community health system in Brevard County. Spokesperson Lance Skelly said the site is secure and is currently under an active investigation.
The contractor for the project is Gilbane Building Co. They didn't immediately respond to a email seeking comment.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
