A construction worker has tragically died in Austin, Texas, after severe winds caused a house he was working on to collapse.
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The shocking incident occurred on August 27 as a powerful rainstorm swept through the area at around 4:20 p.m.
The victim was working alongside three other men on the framing of the house when winds of between 50 and 70 mph reportedly struck the property.
Construction Worker Dies After House Collapses
Travis County Emergency Services (TCES) said that the "entire house collapsed" as a result of the intense winds.
All four workers were inside the property when the structure came crashing down. Two managed to escape, while another two remained trapped beneath the collapsed framing.
Emergency crews found one worker "conscious and breathing" despite the wreckage pinning him down.
However, the other man suffered severe injuries described as being "incompatible with life," and emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.
"A rescue operation which involved the Austin Fire Special Operations team was initiated to stabilize and lift the house off of the individual who was pinned underneath it," a statement read.
"The neighbor next to the house reported that the winds were so intense the trees were blowing sideways and then she heard a loud boom, which was the house collapsing."
"Our condolences go out to the family of those involved in this tragic incident."
Surviving Worker Faces Recovery After Collapse
Emergency crews airlifted the surviving worker to Dell Seton Medical Center with leg and ankle injuries.
Authorities have not publicly identified either man at this time.
The survivor's daughter has since created a GoFundMe to help her father during his recovery.
"My father was trapped underneath the structure, but thank God he was pulled out and airlifted to a hospital in downtown Austin," the description reads.
"He is recovering, but he cannot get the image of the friend who lost his life out of his mind. Thank you very much for any help you can provide, and blessings to everyone."
An August 28 update revealed that the worker suffered a fractured foot and bruising to his back.
He is due to return to the hospital in two weeks for another examination. If his foot does not show sufficient improvement, he may require surgery.
The fundraiser has collected $320 toward its $4,000 goal within five days.
Authorities shut down the construction site following the fatal collapse. Travis County Sheriff's Office investigators reportedly do not suspect foul play.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is now leading an investigation into the incident, a process that could take up to six months.
