A worker was successfully rescued today after being trapped under debris at a historic tower in Rome. The man was carrying out renovation work at the Torre dei Conti near the Colosseum when part of the structure collapsed, leaving him stuck. Emergency responders carefully extricated him from the rubble using a telescopic aerial ladder and transferred him into an ambulance on a stretcher. Although his exact condition was not immediately disclosed, Rome’s chief firefighter commander, Adriano De Acutis, confirmed that he was conscious.
The rescue operation was intricate and time-consuming due to the precarious conditions. Lamberto Giannini, Rome’s prefect, mentioned that the team swiftly transported the worker to the hospital for further evaluation. Initial rescue attempts through a window and with ladders were unsuccessful, leading to the deployment of a drone and later, firefighters using a crane to clear debris from the building. The structural damage occurred primarily on the tower’s southern side and affected the stairwell and roof.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri shared that the worker maintained communication with the rescuers and received oxygen support during the operation. The delicate nature of the rescue was emphasized to prevent additional structural collapses. Three other workers were safely rescued earlier, while a 64-year-old worker sustained critical injuries and was hospitalized with a broken nose. Fortunately, no firefighters were harmed during the rescue efforts.
The Torre dei Conti, a 13th-century structure closed since 2007, is currently undergoing a £6 million restoration project focusing on various upgrades and a new museum display highlighting the Roman Imperial Forum’s latest phases. Before the recent restoration phase commenced, thorough structural assessments and safety checks were conducted to ensure work could proceed safely, including asbestos removal. The ongoing restoration work, costing £350,000, was nearing completion.
Italian authorities are investigating potential charges related to negligence concerning the incident. Witnesses, including 18-year-old German student Viktoria Braeu, recounted the dramatic scene as they observed the unfolding events near the Colosseum. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed hope for the worker’s successful rescue, extending sympathies to the affected individual and their family. Meloni commended the law enforcement and rescue teams for their courage and dedication during the challenging rescue mission.