Six Dead, Others Missing After Johannesburg Building Collapse

Johannesburg, South Africa – A building collapse in Ormonde, south of Johannesburg, has resulted in at least six confirmed fatalities, with two people still trapped and three unaccounted for as of Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The incident occurred at Amethyst Business Park on Monday, March 2, 2026, impacting construction workers at the site.

Details of the Collapse

According to Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS), the building, a two-story structure under construction as a factory, collapsed on Monday afternoon. Twelve people were initially confirmed to be inside the building. As of the latest reports, six construction workers have died, one has been rescued, two remain trapped, and three are still missing [SABC News], [News24].

Emergency services spokesperson Xolile Khumalo stated that the building was unstable, posing risks to rescue operations [SABC News]. Rescuers have been able to communicate with one of the trapped workers, and there is concern that one may require a leg amputation due to the severity of their injuries [News24].

Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams are working to extricate those trapped under the rubble. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to operate safely and efficiently [The Star]. The cause of the collapse is currently unknown and under investigation.

Witness Accounts

One construction worker, speaking anonymously, reported hearing a loud bang and seeing dust after the concrete slab for the second-floor deck collapsed. The worker stated that colleagues had died in the incident [The Star].

Families Notified

Families of the construction workers involved have been alerted and are expected to arrive at the scene [The Star].