Three contractors who were hired to work on a storm sewer project in Indiana died after becoming trapped underground.
According to Fort Wayne Fire Department, a rescue team was called out to a work site in Columbia City just before 9 a.m Tuesday with a report that three people were trapped in a sewer manhole.
The men were found about 25 feet underground in about 5 feet of water. Rescue workers were able to pull them back to the surface and perform life-saving measures, but all three were declared dead at the scene. It was unclear how they became trapped, and causes of death have yet to be determined and are pending autopsies.
"The City of Columbia City extends our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in a utility accident today, and to their employer," Mayor Ryan Daniel said. "While all the details are unknown at this time, we will be working with all parties to determine ways in which these types of tragedies can be prevented in the future.
"We ask that our community join us in keeping these individuals and their families in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
