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Worker injured in Brooklyn building collapse alleges corners were cut at construction site: ‘Third-world stuff’
A construction worker injured in the fatal collapse of a Brooklyn apartment building alleges that inadequate precautions at the neighbouring excavation site contributed to the disaster. His lawyer says the claims raise questions about how the site was supported, while city officials say the excavation plans had been approved and the investigation is continuing.
The worker, employed by subcontractor Elite Concrete, says a five-foot pile of dirt topped with concrete was used beside the apartment building instead of proper shoring. The collapse on Wednesday killed eight people, including two children and three construction workers, and injured nearly 20; the worker suffered knee, shoulder and back injuries. His lawyer says a city report had previously noted a crack in the building wall, and is considering claims against the developers, contractors, engineers and possibly the building’s owners. The allegations have not been independently established.
In short
- Injured worker alleges inadequate support at the excavation site.
- Brooklyn collapse killed eight people and injured nearly 20.
- City says approved plans are under investigation.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The worker’s account, if substantiated, suggests that a pile of dirt and concrete may have been used where proper shoring was needed, despite a previously noted crack in the building. Given the deaths and injuries, it is reasonable to seek accountability from those responsible for planning and overseeing the excavation and to scrutinise whether approved plans were followed in practice.
The case against
The allegations have not been independently established, and city officials say the excavation plans were approved while the investigation continues. A collapse alone does not establish that precautions were inadequate or identify who, if anyone, was at fault; conclusions about responsibility should await evidence about the site’s support, the work carried out and the building’s condition.
Explained simply
Excavation beside an existing building can affect the ground that supports its foundations. Construction teams use shoring and other supports to hold back soil and help protect nearby structures while digging is under way.
The worker was employed by Elite Concrete, a subcontractor at the site. His lawyer alleges that a dirt pile topped with concrete was used where proper shoring was needed, and says a previously reported wall crack may be relevant. These claims have not been independently established.
The developers, contractors and engineers involved in the work, as well as the building’s owners, may face questions about their roles. City officials say the excavation plans had been approved, and the investigation is continuing.