Two workers were left dangling over a bridge after a malfunction caused a boom truck to overturn.
It happened on Monday around 1:30 p.m. on the Sakonnet River Bridge in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
The truck toppled onto its side against the railing.
The workers teetered dangerously over the edge.
The bridge was shut down in both directions while firefighters rescued the stranded workers. Rescuers positioned a ladder truck above the fallen crane, while boats waited in the river below.
Another crane was then used to reach the workers.
By 2:50 p.m., the men were transferred onto the other crane and placed safely back on the bridge.
According to WCBV, the workers were taken to ambulances, but did not appear injured.
The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority stated that a private contractor was conducting a bridge inspection when machinery malfunctioned for unknown reasons. They explained, “At this time, the Authority believes that all safety protocols and procedures were followed prior to the malfunctioning of the equipment.”
The bridge shutdown caused major traffic delays along Route 24 and Main Road in Tiverton. The bridge remained closed until after 4 p.m. By 5 p.m. one lane was still closed. Motorists were advised to avoid the area.