In a heart-wrenching incident in Hamburg, a major construction site was struck by tragedy as scaffolding collapsed, resulting in the loss of lives and several individuals still missing. The calamity unfolded in Hafencity, a significant redevelopment area within the city’s port.
While the initial reports mentioned five casualties, the latest update confirms three fatalities, with one person in critical condition and several individuals still unaccounted for. The catastrophe occurred during the construction of an eight-storey lift shaft, leading to the sudden collapse of the scaffolding.
The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. The affected site, known as Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier, was on track for completion in spring 2024. This complex, owned by the renowned French multinational Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), was poised to become a vibrant commercial, residential, and leisure destination, featuring a new cruise ship terminal.
URW expressed deep sorrow over this «tragic accident» and has pledged unwavering support for rescue efforts in collaboration with local authorities. The complexity of the scaffolding has made the rescue operation a challenging and hazardous endeavor for the dedicated response teams.
The entire construction site, which provided employment for approximately 700 workers, was swiftly evacuated, and the accident site was secured by the police. Medical teams, including a rescue helicopter, were promptly dispatched to provide aid to the injured.
The cause of the scaffolding collapse remains a subject of intense investigation, casting a somber shadow over the Hamburg community. Our thoughts are with the affected and their loved ones during this trying time.