Eric Horng reported on a dramatic incident for WLS-TV on Thursday afternoon. A worker fell while servicing an antenna atop the historic Frankfort Grainery, triggering a complex rescue operation. The Frankfort Police Department, along with fire crews, responded promptly to the scene, urging the public to avoid the downtown area during the emergency operation.
The 170-year-old, 125-foot-tall grain tower, located near Oak and Elwood streets, has become a village landmark. The worker, who fell approximately 15 feet, suffered a broken arm, rendering him unable to descend on his own.
Rescue efforts involved additional firefighters and rescue technicians who worked diligently to secure the injured worker. Blankets were used to keep him warm, and he was carefully strapped to a stretcher before being lowered into the building. The intricate operation moved the worker down three levels, ultimately allowing firefighters on a ladder to bring him safely to the ground.
The worker was then transported to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, where he remained stable throughout the incident, according to the Frankfort Police Department.
