Construction site reopened

Construction site reopened

Work resumed Monday on the construction site where one worker was killed and seven others injured during a severe thunderstorm last Thursday. A safety meeting was conducted before crews continued their work.

Workers held a quiet memorial Monday in honor of Juan Romero of Missouri City, Texas, who died at the site. Romero was employed by Lucia, a masonry firm performing work for the general contractor for the project, Linbeck Group L.L.C.

Lucia is planning to set up a fund for Romero and the other workers who were injured. Details on how to contribute will be announced later.

The death and injuries occurred when a severe thunderstorm with high winds and lightning struck the campus around 4 p.m. June 19. The site was struck by powerful wind gusts that are reported to have measured more than 60 miles per hour in some areas. Five interior concrete block walls under construction for rooms on the second floor toppled.

Rice EMS initiated patient care at the scene and then later assisted the Houston Fire Department crew. Seven workers were hospitalized, and as of Monday morning, four remained in the hospital.

According to Linbeck, injured employees are Carlos Ayala, Natividad Chinchilla, Jorge Guzman, Bobby Martin, Emigdio Moreno, Douglas Padilla and Noel Puente.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration completed its on-site inspection Friday and is reviewing the information. No reports have been issued.