Emergency Rescue Efforts Complicated by Unstable Land in Former Mining Area
December 5, 2024 - An old mining area in Westmoreland County, PA presented challenges for teams attempting to save a woman who may be trapped underground. Environmental concerns were raised about the stability of the land during rescue attempts.
Philip Reeder, a professor at Duquesne University’s Environmental & Energy Engineering Department, suggests that human activity during the rescue operations could further destabilize the ground at the sinkhole in Unity Township.
"The mining process weakens the rock, leading to potential collapses as the land can no longer support itself," Reeder said.
The incident is known as a mine sink, and is a pressing issue in regions like southwestern Pennsylvania.
Sinkholes in rural southwestern Pennsylvania often result from weathering limestone beneath the soil, while urban areas face sinkholes due to failing infrastructure.
As Reeder said, "Sinkhole collapses in urban areas are often linked to leaking sewer pipes, leading to land collapsing."
(UPDATE: On Wednesday night, state police confirmed that the search for Elizabeth Pollard is now considered a recovery effort.)