Worker Killed in Canyon Tunnel Project Collapse

A worker was killed April 14 at the Canyon Tunnel Project northeast of Knights Ferry in Calaveras County, California, as the result of a rock fall inside the tunnel, according to an April 15 press release issued jointly by the South San Joaquin Irrigation District (SSJID) and Oakdale Irrigation District (OID). The victim was identified as 35-year-old engineer Twyla Capurro. The press release said that Capurro was a member of the Provost and Pritchard Consulting Group’s team, an advisor on the project.

According to the news release: “At approximately 3:42 p.m. on April 14, emergency responders from Modesto Fire and other regional agencies were dispatched following reports of a rock fall inside the tunnel. One individual was transported to a local hospital with minor to moderate injuries. One individual remained inside the tunnel and tragically was later confirmed to be deceased. Rescue and recovery crews worked tirelessly and recovered the individual at approximately 10:00 p.m. that evening.

“SSJID and OID extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of those involved in yesterday’s incident. The Districts thank all the first responders across multiple jurisdictions who responded to the project site and coordinated their efforts in rescue and recovery. We further offer our thanks and condolences to construction team, as they worked in conjunction with first responders in the rescue and recovery of their own. Our hearts are with everyone touched by this tragedy.”

The tunnel is part of an $80 million water project designed to improve water delivery reliability in the Central Valley and help increase water supply dependability into the next century. Work on the project has been suspended following the accident.