Labor Department Probes June 14 Jobsite Accident on St. Thomas

The collapse of a construction scaffold on a western St. Thomas worksite on June 14 is now the subject of an investigation by the Labor Department. A spokeswoman for the agency acknowledged on Tuesday that a probe is underway but gave no specifics at this time.

Ten construction workers — described by one source as migrant workers — were rushed to the Roy L. Schneider Hospital Emergency Room for treatment of injuries linked to that collapse, according to a statement issued June 14. One accident victim was airlifted to the U.S. mainland for further treatment; two more are believed to have also been sent off island as well.

“We are aware of the incident and it is under investigation. There is no further comment at this time,” said Labor Public Information Officer Davina Martinez on Tuesday.

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., speaking to the Source on Sunday, said he tried to contact owners of the site where the accident occurred but had not yet received a return phone call. The governor added he was particularly concerned about the three people who were reportedly airlifted from here, but so far, no one had gotten back to him.