Tragedy at Water Project Site: Two Feared Dead, Two Rescued After Well Collapse in Grand Kru
Grand Kru:A water development project in Gbarken Community, Forpoh District, Grand Kru County, turned tragic on Sunday afternoon when four men became trapped inside a newly constructed well during ongoing construction works. Two victims were rescued alive, while two others were feared dead as desperate rescue efforts continued late into the evening.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 p.m. on June 21 while workers were engaged in the construction of a well intended to support a water production facility in the community. Residents said the project had been progressing normally before the situation suddenly took a deadly turn.
According to eyewitness accounts, workers were preparing to install concrete pipes inside the excavation when water unexpectedly began filling the well. In an attempt to drain the water and continue the operation, a pump hose was lowered into the pit.
Shortly afterward, four men reportedly entered or became trapped inside the well under circumstances that residents say are still unclear. The sudden emergency drew scores of community members to the scene as frantic efforts began to save those inside.
"We heard loud cries for help and immediately rushed there," one resident recounted. "People were doing everything possible to get them out, but it was a very difficult situation."
Community members managed to rescue two of the victims alive, but two others remained trapped for several hours, raising fears about their survival. Residents said the rescue operation was complicated by the depth of the well and the dangerous conditions inside it.
"It was a painful sight to witness," another resident said. "Families were crying, and everyone was hoping for a miracle. The entire community was gathered there praying that all four men would be rescued safely."
As news of the accident spread, grief and anxiety gripped Gbarken Community. Residents described the incident as one of the most devastating accidents the area has experienced in recent years, leaving many people shaken and demanding answers.
By Monday morning, local residents feared that the two men still trapped in the well had lost their lives, although authorities had not officially confirmed any fatalities. Community leaders are expected to work alongside local authorities to investigate the cause of the accident, including whether proper safety measures were observed before workers entered the excavation site.
Z. Benjamin Keibah