Bethesda, MD (March 11, 2026) – Two construction workers were hospitalized on Tuesday, March 10, after a trench collapsed at a home construction site on Kentbury Drive near Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. The collapse occurred around noon.
One worker was buried up to his waist and rescued shortly after 1:00 p.m., while a second worker was completely buried and pulled from the trench just after 2:00 p.m. He was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.
Officials said both men may have suffered compression injuries, internal injuries, and circulation problems. About 60 first responders, including Montgomery County Fire and Rescue personnel and police officers, assisted in the rescue operation. The trench was approximately 2 to 3 feet wide and 10 to 12 feet deep, and Kentbury Drive was temporarily closed during the rescue.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and more information about the workers’ conditions will be released as it is provided.
Our thoughts are with the injured workers as they receive medical care.
Why Trench Collapses Are Dangerous on Construction Sites
Trench collapses are a serious hazard in construction work because soil can shift quickly, trapping workers and applying heavy pressure on the body. Even shallow trenches can cause crushing injuries or suffocation.
Safety measures such as proper trench shoring, sloping, and timely inspections are used to prevent collapses, but accidents can still occur. Emergency responders focus on carefully digging around trapped workers to avoid further injury.
Medical treatment for trench injuries often includes monitoring for internal damage, circulation issues, and other complications caused by prolonged compression.
