Ceiling Collapse in Vienna

Cell Phone Location Tracking: Retiree Likely Still Trapped Under Rubble

According to the fire department, another person may be trapped under the rubble.(Bild: Krone-Collage/Berufsrettung Wien)

Following a ceiling collapse in Vienna, the search for survivors is continuing at full speed. An 85-year-old resident may be trapped under the rubble. Search dogs have also been deployed.

On Sunday evening, a building partially collapsed on Färbergasse in downtown Vienna—as reported by the “Krone.” A 57-year-old woman was seriously injured in the incident and had to be rescued by the fire department, as was already reported on Monday. However, she is likely not the only one.

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Cell Phone Tracking Revealed the Missing Person’s Location
The search for the missing person continues. Initially, emergency responders suspected the woman was at her secondary residence. Cell phone tracking revealed that the person could be buried under the rubble.

Fire Department: “Faint Signs” Detected
As a result, specialized teams from the acoustic location unit and the fire department’s search dogs were deployed again on Monday. According to the fire department, “faint signs” were detected during the search. However, because the building is very unstable and debris and loose structural components are constantly falling, these detections cannot currently be definitively identified.

Press officer Jürgen Fiegerl spoke with the “Krone” about the ongoing search operation.(Bild: zVg)

“We haven’t found the person yet”
“We’re clearing the debris and building parts to the side and keep finding cavities, which we’re also examining with special equipment and cameras, but we haven’t found the person yet,” said press officer Jürgen Fiegerl in an interview with the “Krone.” Cadaver dogs are now also being deployed in the search.

“Outer walls are in danger of collapsing”
In parallel with the search being conducted by several teams, safety measures are being carried out continuously both inside and outside the building. Currently, the exterior walls of the building are being secured, as they are in danger of collapsing. Square timbers are being attached to the exterior, while ropes are being installed inside the building for safety.

Dangerous Search Operation
The search for the missing person is physically demanding and requires extensive, meticulous work. “Work in the danger zone is taking place under extreme stress,” said Figerl. Since last night, the search has been supported by a special suction excavator that is removing debris from the building.