Worker killed, another missing after scaffolding collapses beneath Long Island bridge
New York State Police identified the missing worker as Diogo de Oliveira, of Elizabeth, New Jersey. His co-worker, Kleiton de Madeiros, also from New Jersey, died in the incident.
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Search crews are battling inclement weather as they continue looking for a missing construction worker who fell into Hempstead Bay after scaffolding collapsed beneath the Long Creek Bridge Wednesday morning, killing one of his coworkers.
New York State Police identified the missing worker as Diogo de Oliveira, of Elizabeth, New Jersey. His co-worker, Kleiton de Madeiros, also from New Jersey, died in the incident.
Investigators say the two men were among eight contractors working on scaffolding approximately 50 feet above the water when the equipment failed.
The crew was performing scheduled maintenance on the bridge, including painting and sandblasting, when the scaffolding collapsed.
“We know something failed with the equipment. We don’t know what the exact cause was,” said Lt. Michael Grasso, of the New York State Police.
Investigators are working to determine what caused the equipment failure and who was responsible for inspecting the scaffolding before crews began working.
Meanwhile, search teams are continuing their efforts despite challenging weather conditions.
“They are still working through the inclement weather,” Grasso said. “And it’s going to continue until we find the victim.”
The incident has shaken nearby residents, who say they hope the missing worker is found soon.
“It gives closure to his family. I would want to find him if it was my husband,” said Point Lookout resident Mary Lou Ball.
The Long Creek Bridge remains open to traffic, but police say all maintenance work has been suspended until officials clear the scene and determine it is safe to resume operations.
