News Summary
A construction worker died after falling approximately 30 feet at a school construction site in Van Meter, Iowa. Emergency services responded, but the contractor was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and reviewing safety protocols. The construction company involved expressed condolences, while local officials emphasized the importance of safety regulations in preventing such tragedies.
Van Meter, Iowa – Construction Worker Killed in 30-Foot Fall at School Project
A construction worker died on Tuesday, October 7, after falling approximately 30 feet at a school construction site in Van Meter, Iowa. The incident occurred shortly before 1 p.m. during ongoing work on a new building on the Van Meter School District campus.
Details of the incident
The worker, a 33-year-old male contractor, was involved in a fall while working at the construction zone. The accident happened in the vicinity of the new school building, which is part of the district’s expansion efforts. The worker’s identity has not been publicly released, as authorities are withholding it to give the family privacy during this difficult time.
Response by emergency services
Immediate response teams were dispatched to the scene, including personnel from the Van Meter Police Department, Van Meter Fire Department, Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, Dallas County EMS, DeSoto Fire Department, and MercyOne medical services. A school resource officer on-site quickly commenced CPR on the injured worker while waiting for medical personnel to arrive.
MercyOne dispatched a helicopter emergency medical service, which landed on the softball field across from the school. Despite their efforts and advanced medical intervention, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The specific circumstances that contributed to the fall are still under investigation.
Statement from authorities and involved parties
A spokesperson for the construction company involved, Story Construction, confirmed that the deceased was working as a bid package contractor on the project. Van Meter Police Chief Mike Brown extended condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of the victim and assured the community that authorities are thoroughly investigating the incident.
Investigation and safety inquiries
The incident is now under formal investigation, with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) being notified due to the nature of the work-related accident. Officials are reviewing safety protocols and workplace conditions to determine any factors that may have contributed to the fall.
Community and ongoing updates
Van Meter Police Chief Mike Brown emphasized that more information will be provided to the public as it becomes available. The school district and local authorities are offering support to those affected by the tragedy and are cooperating fully with the investigation to ensure safety standards are reviewed and upheld.
Background on construction safety and recent incidents
Construction sites inherently carry risks, especially those involving work at heights like this one. Falls are among the leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry, prompting ongoing calls for stricter safety regulations and enforcement. While such incidents remain rare, their tragic impact underscores the importance of comprehensive safety measures and oversight.
This incident marks a somber reminder of the dangers faced by workers in the construction sector. Officials continue to focus on determining the precise causes of this accident and preventing future tragedies through safety improvements and regulatory compliance.
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Additional Resources
- KCCI News
- Des Moines Register
- WHO 13 News
- We Are Iowa
- Wikipedia: Construction Accidents
- Google Search: Van Meter School District Construction Incident
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