Scaffolding collapse in Reading: At least 3 people injured

At least 3 people were injured and more may be trapped under the rubble after a scaffolding collapsed in Reading, UK.

The incident occurred at 11:15 BST on August 1, 2019. The scaffolding fell apart on Garrard Street. 3 people were hospitalized, 2 people of them suffering from a head injury and chest pains, respectively. 

"I heard a huge bang as I was at the top of Friar Street. I just walked down and saw this. People must have been badly hurt. It is crazy," a witness stated. "It was horrifying, very shocking and very concerning," another added.

The police and the fire department are searching for victims using high-tech equipment. "The fire service is using their thermal imaging equipment to search the collapsed scaffolding," a spokesman, stated.

The building was under reconstruction and officials are concerned about workers that may be trapped. The structure was planned to be demolished and replaced by two 12-story buildings consisting of 538 apartments.

The crowd gathered at the scene to observe the damage. However, officials requested that people avoid the wider region. Moreover, those that have parked in the area could not return to their vehicles after a police order. Garrad Street is currently closed in both directions. 

Lincoln MGT, the company that owns the building, has not made any comments yet. The firm's officials will conduct a detailed inspection before providing updates.

Sources: Standard.co.uk, BBC.com, Telegraph.co.uk, Readingchronicle.co.uk