A dramatic rescue operation is underway in the Wilmington neighborhood of Los Angeles after a tunnel collapse left up to 15 workers trapped late Wednesday night.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has deployed over 100 firefighters to the scene, including specialized search-and-rescue teams trained in confined space emergencies.
Authorities say the collapse occurred deep within an industrial tunnel system—potentially as far as six miles from its only access point—raising challenges for rescue efforts.
Key Details:
- Incident Location: Industrial tunnel in Wilmington, Los Angeles.
- Time of Collapse: Wednesday night, exact time not confirmed.
- Number of Workers Trapped: Up to 15 individuals.
- Rescue Response: More than 100 LAFD personnel dispatched, including tunnel rescue specialists.
- Tunnel Access Issue: Collapse may be as far as six miles from the sole entry point.
- Injury Status: No confirmed injuries as of 12:05 a.m. ET Thursday.
- Noise Interference: LAFD reports media helicopter noise is disrupting vital ground-level communication.
- Safety Request: Media asked to stay at least one mile away from Figueroa Street and Lomita Boulevard.
Rescue efforts continue under challenging conditions, and officials are urging the public and media to cooperate with safety measures.

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