Wedding Reception Floor Collapses in Modern Hampshire, Injuring Dozens
TAMWORTH, NH – A floor collapse at The Preserve at Chocorua in Tamworth, New Hampshire, injured at least six people Saturday afternoon, sending nearly 70 wedding guests tumbling approximately eight feet into the basement. The incident occurred during the start of a wedding ceremony, as the bride and groom entered the building with members of their wedding party, according to officials.
What Happened?
At approximately 4:30 p.m. On Saturday, March 21, 2026, emergency responders were dispatched to The Preserve at Chocorua following reports of a partial floor collapse in a building known as the Sap House. New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey stated that approximately 144 people were in the building at the time of the incident, and around 70 fell through a roughly 20-foot square opening WMUR.
Venue staff immediately began providing first aid and assisting guests out of the basement using ladders. Six adults were transported to area hospitals for treatment. One individual was airlifted to Maine Medical Center with lower extremity injuries. As of Saturday evening, four of the injured had been released from hospitals WCVB.
Investigation Underway
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation into the cause of the collapse. Initial findings suggest the building may have been over capacity. Investigators are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (603) 223-4289 or via email at fmo@dos.nh.gov.
About The Preserve at Chocorua
The Preserve at Chocorua is described as a “beautiful estate nestled in the historic town of Tamworth, New Hampshire,” suitable for events and celebrations Visit NH. The 30-acre property features multiple event spaces, including the Sap House, a Hayford Barn, an Ice Pavilion, and a Sperry Sailcloth Tent. The venue can accommodate up to 73 overnight guests in its cottages and farmhouse Visit NH.
The Sap House is described as a “quintessential New England Maple Sugar shack” suitable for intimate ceremonies or cocktail hours Visit NH. The venue’s website does not specify a maximum capacity for the Sap House, but notes that the Barn can accommodate over 225 guests.