Construction Accident Proved Fatal for Two Children

We all have a vague understanding of how dangerous construction sites can be. With heavy machinery everywhere you turn and the potential risk of being hit by a falling object, even the most veteran of construction workers thinks twice before proceeding forward. Although this may be the case with many adults here in North Dakota, this may not be so true when it comes to the thoughts of children.

Kids are naturally adventurous, as most parents will attest, and often times find themselves in dangerous situations without even realizing it. This was likely the case for two North Carolina children whose bodies were found under nearly 24 feet of dirt in a home construction site this month.

The tragic construction accident occurred when two children, a 7 year old boy and a 6 year old girl began playing in the 24 foot deep hole that was intended to be a basement. Witnesses say the two children became trapped under the dirt when one of the walls to the site suddenly collapsed.

When emergency first responders arrived on the scene, the initial search was that of a rescue attempt. As more and more time passed, with still no sign of the children, the search quickly turned to that of a recovery.

When people here in North Dakota hear about accidental death and injuries that occur at construction sites, they usually don’t expect the involved people to be children. It’s important to point out that no one is exempt from the dangers that exist at these sites. Unlike sites run by construction companies, home projects such as this one may not meet all of the necessary safety measures. Had a professional company been in charge of the site, circumstances could have been considerably different.

At present time, law enforcement officers are looking into the incident and will be conducting an investigation to determine fault in this matter. As for now, the family members are left to grieve and wonder how a tragedy like this may have been prevented.

Source: USA Today, “Crews find bodies of 2 kids buried at N.C. work site,” Rachel Huggins, April 8, 2013.