Blairsville Borough Police have released the names of the victims involved in the collapse of a roof at the former junior high building on Wednesday.
Chief Lou Sacco said in a news release that 63-year-old John William Plunkett of Colfax, North Carolina, and 27-year-old Ryan Nupp of Latrobe fell three stories after the roof collapsed while they were assessing the building for demolition. Plunkett was flown to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries. Nupp was taken to Forbes Hospital by Citizens Ambulance and was reported to be in stable condition.
Sacco adds borough officials, police, and OSHA met at the scene and determined the building was not safe for entry. Additionally, the Indiana County Team 900 drone team captured video and photos of the building and the roof. Both will be used in the investigation.
Sacco thanked emergency responders in the release, citing their quick work and professionalism.
