WATCH: Death toll rises to 6 after Ormonde building collapse
Three people have been seriously injured, and three others remain missing as rescue teams continue to search through the unstable rubble.
The death toll from the Ormonde building collapse has now risen to six, while three people have been seriously injured and are receiving medical attention, authorities confirmed on Monday.
Three others remain unaccounted for as search and rescue teams work through unstable rubble at the business park along Booysens Road Reserve.
City of Johannesburg Disaster and Emergency Management Services spokesperson Xolile Khumalo said rescue teams are proceeding with caution due to the building’s unstable condition.
“Assessments will be conducted as soon as everyone has been accounted for,” She said.
@southern.courierThree people have been seriously injured, and three others remain missing as rescue teams continue to search through the unstable rubble. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier
Khumalo confirmed that emergency services are using dog units and specialised equipment to locate those still missing.
Investigation into structural failures
City of Joburg Public Safety MMC Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku said authorities are launching a thorough investigation to determine why the building collapsed.
Officials will review building plans, engineering drawings, and construction inspections to verify whether proper safety standards and procedures were followed.
@southern.courierThe death toll from the Ormonde building collapse has now risen to six, while three people have been seriously injured and are receiving medical attention, authorities confirmed on Monday. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier
Dr. Tshwaku indicated that poor workmanship may have played a role in the collapse and warned that individuals found responsible could face criminal charges.
“This is a criminal matter because of the fatalities involved,” he said.
Area remains dangerous
The building remains unstable, making rescue operations difficult and dangerous. Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of the area while emergency teams continue their work.
Paramedics are attending to the injured on site, and dog units are helping locate those still missing.
Residents have expressed concern over safety standards in commercial buildings, as the investigation unfolds and more information about the collapse becomes available.
WATCH: 4 dead, several missing after Ormonde building collapse
