
QUINCY – A construction accident at the intersection of Washington and Sumner streets on Tuesday morning led to a frightening moment for workers when scaffolding unexpectedly collapsed. Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, ensuring worker safety and assessing the situation.

Emergency Response and Worker Safety
Shortly after the collapse, a Facebook post associated with the Quincy Fire Department alerted the public:
"Crews are currently on the scene of a construction accident. Reported scaffold collapse. Searches underway. Please avoid the area."
A follow-up post later confirmed that all workers were accounted for and searches turned up negative.
Images from the site show mangled scaffolding scattered across the ground, with debris falling onto parked work vans along Washington Street. Officials worked swiftly to clear the area and determine the extent of the damage.
Location and Traffic Disruptions
According to Ally Sleiman, Quincy’s director of Emergency Management, the accident occurred at 388 Washington St. Fire and building department personnel arrived quickly to conduct searches and secure the site. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
While traffic is still flowing through the area, it is moving at a slower pace due to the ongoing investigation. Sleiman has urged motorists to avoid the location if possible to ease congestion and allow emergency responders to work efficiently.
Potential Causes and Investigation
While strong winds were present throughout the morning and afternoon, the exact cause of the collapse has yet to be determined, according to Deputy Fire Chief Kevin O’Connor.
Officials from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are now leading the investigation to determine whether structural issues, weather conditions, or other factors contributed to the incident.
Precautionary Measures Taken
Due to concerns about further instability, authorities have also evacuated a neighboring building as a precaution in case any remaining scaffolding poses a risk.
"Finegold Alexander has done an incredible job transforming our campus into a modern, 21st-century education environment that truly fosters student learning and creativity," said AMSA Executive Director Dr. Lisa C. Mobley. "These new spaces will enable us to serve our students more effectively, making a real and lasting impact on their academic experience."
Authorities remain on-site, ensuring the area is safe and stable before allowing construction to resume. The investigation into the cause of the collapse is ongoing.
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