PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The bodies of two workers have been recovered from the scene of last week’s parking garage collapse in Grays Ferry, the mayor announced early Monday morning.
Crews, by machine and by hand, have been painstakingly removing layers of concrete from the parking garage, which was torn down over the weekend. Mayor Cherelle Parker said those firefighters did what they set out to do.
“They have recovered both individuals with the utmost dignity and compassion and respect for their families and loved ones,” she said.
Ironworkers Local 401 identified the two as Matthew Kane and Mark Scott Jr. It is now up to the medical examiner to determine the cause and manner of their deaths.
Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson said they had a good idea of where the bodies were. It was just a matter of making sure the area was safe before sending crews in. That’s why they had to do a controlled demolition and use a wrecking ball to knock down the garage, which had become unstable after the partial collapse.
Parker also announced that she signed an executive order directing the city solicitor and law department to conduct a full independent investigation into the collapse. A final report of the findings will be sent to the mayor in 180 days, and an independent committee will review the report.
The city said there have been no red flags as they continue to monitor air quality. Officials did not give a timeline for how long the area, including businesses in the Grays Ferry shopping center, will remain closed.
Part of the collapse site needs to be preserved for an undetermined amount of time for the OSHA and city investigation, officials said.
There are still hazards in the area, including a damaged power pole and other infrastructure damage, that need to be addressed.
