Crane Collapse in Florida Destroys Home, Cuts Water to Dozens

A construction accident in Florida turned destructive when a truck-mounted crane tipped over and crashed into a residential home after rupturing an underground water main.

According to local station WFTV, the crane had been working to install utility poles when its weight destabilized the ground beneath it, crushing a water line and toppling into a nearby house.

The home, which was severely damaged, was fortunately unoccupied at the time. Neighbors said the accident could have been far worse if anyone had been inside. “It’s a miracle no one was hurt,” one resident told reporters.

The impact of the water main break extended beyond the collapsed home. Around 80 nearby houses were left without running water, forcing utility crews to rush in and isolate the broken line.

A manager with the crane company, Big Iron International, said the accident was unexpected because the underground line did not appear on records. “The water line did not show up when locating utilities assessed the area,” the manager explained, noting that workers had conducted standard checks before starting the job.

Emergency responders and city crews quickly secured the site and began working to restore water service. By late afternoon, service had been partially restored to some homes, but full repairs are expected to take several days.

The house struck by the crane is considered a total loss, according to early assessments. Officials said the displaced homeowner is receiving assistance, and an investigation into the accident is underway to determine whether additional precautions or utility mapping should have been in place.

This incident highlights the risks construction crews face when working near undocumented or inaccurately mapped infrastructure. In many communities, older underground utilities may not be fully recorded, leaving contractors vulnerable to accidents when heavy equipment is involved.

Residents expressed relief that the outcome wasn’t worse but raised concerns about construction safety near homes. “We’ve got poles going up everywhere, and now this shows what can happen if something goes wrong,” another neighbor said.

As the investigation continues, Big Iron International has pledged full cooperation with local authorities and utility providers to address damages and prevent similar accidents in the future.

Originally reported by Construction Equipment.