10 Teens Fall Through a Utility Grate While Touring College

A group of high school students had a frightening experience during a college campus tour at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Va., when 10 of them fell through a utility grate. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 26, left three students needing further examination at a local hospital.

According to a Virginia Tech incident report, the Washington County Public School students were exploring the campus and had gathered near Pamplin Hall, one of the academic buildings. While they were standing on a utility grate, it suddenly gave way, causing the students to fall six feet down.

Fortunately, the students managed to extricate themselves from the situation, and emergency services quickly arrived to assess their injuries. Three of the students were then taken to LewisGale Hospital Montgomery for additional evaluation as a precautionary measure, while the remaining seven received treatment on the scene.

Superintendent Dr. Keith Perrigan of Washington County Schools confirmed that all students involved in the incident were safe and recovering. The rest of the group was relocated to Derring Hall and provided with necessary support services before eventually resuming their tour.

Following the incident, the area where the grate collapsed was secured, along with similar locations across the campus, for thorough inspection. Despite the unsettling experience, the students were able to continue with their tour once the necessary safety measures were in place.

A spokesperson for Virginia Tech declined to offer any further comments on the incident. The university’s prompt response to the situation, including providing medical care and ensuring the safety of the students, was instrumental in resolving the issue swiftly.

Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the infrastructure of educational institutions to ensure the safety of students and visitors. The swift action taken by emergency services and school officials highlights the preparedness and professionalism required in handling unexpected situations.

As the students recover from the incident, their resilience and the support they received from the school and medical staff are commendable. The incident also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and maintenance to prevent similar accidents in the future, ensuring the safety of all those who visit or study on college campuses.

In light of this event, it is crucial for educational institutions to conduct regular safety inspections and maintenance checks to prevent potential hazards and ensure the well-being of students and visitors. By prioritising safety protocols and infrastructure maintenance, colleges can create a secure environment for all members of their campus community.