Click here for updates on this story
Orlando, FL (WESH) — Two workers were killed in a construction accident near Walt Disney World, Orange County Fire Rescue said.
Fire Rescue spokesperson Mike Jachles said there were about 18 workers at the scene when they got the call about the accident at 4:15 a.m.
Officials said several workers were on a scaffold at a JW Marriott hotel under construction at the 14900 block of Chelonia Parkway when the scaffold gave way.
According to fire rescue, the workers, two men in their early 30s, were between the sixth and seventh floor when the incident occurred.
Two workers fell around 80 feet to the ground and died at the scene, officials said. Officials said a third worker hung on and was able to climb to safety. That worker has minor injuries.
Authorities said they are unsure why the scaffolding gave way. Jachles said the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and Federal investigators are examining what happened.
Marriot released the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that took place earlier today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the workers who died. As the construction of the building is managed by the developer, we are not in a position to provide further comment.”
PCL Construction, the construction contracting company being used to build the hotel, also released a statement: “PCL is deeply shocked and saddened by the incident that happened this morning at our JW Marriott Bonnet Creek construction site. Our sincerest condolences go to everyone affected by this tragedy.
Safety of all workers is our top priority and we are doing everything we can to investigate this incident and assist local authorities.”
Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.
