Wharf collapses into ocean along with 3 construction workers: officials

A wharf in California collapsed and fell into the ocean, taking with it three construction workers who ultimately survived the ordeal.

It happened around 12:45 p.m. Monday at Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, the Santa Cruz Fire Department said. The department was alerted that an area surrounding the Dolphin Restaurant and a restroom collapsed into the ocean along with three construction workers. The area was under construction and had been closed to the public since January.

Two workers were rescued by a lifeguard team and the third successfully came ashore on their own. No one was significantly hurt, fire officials said.

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A police drone confirmed no one else needed rescuing. The drone also helped assess the extent of the damage.

The wharf will be closed until further notice.

Two beaches were closed due to a high surf advisory and large amounts of debris — including potentially dangerous materials released during the incident.

The public was also warned to avoid all coastal areas near the wharf due to life-threatening ocean waters.

See photos of the harrowing ordeal below or at this link.