WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — On Monday, a concrete wall collapsed at Robins Air Force Base killing a 14-year-old. It happened at Heritage Pool on the base.
According to spokesperson Shellie Espinosa, three others were also injured but are expected to be okay.
Houston County Coroner James Williams said it happened inside the restroom area of the pool. Williams said the victim was transported to Houston Healthcare where he died shortly after.
13WMAZ spoke with Melissa Noles, whose grandson and step-grandson had non-life-threatening injuries in the collapse.
"I did ask my grandson if he noticed anything unusual about the wall and he did say that he noticed some of the mortar had cracked and chipped around the bottom of the wall," Noles said.
She said he noticed this before the wall collapsed. Her grandson suffered a couple of broken ribs and a collapsed lung. She said he may be released from the hospital in a couple of days.
Noles said her step-grandson has already been released from the hospital with minor injuries.
She says her grandson and step-grandson were heartbroken to learn their friend didn't survive the collapse.
"We are very saddened by the loss of the other young man and we are keeping his family in our prayers," Noles said.
Williams says an autopsy on the boy who died is scheduled at the GBI Crime Lab in Macon. The victim's name has not been released.
The Air Force Office of Special Investigations at Robins Air Force Base is investigating the accident. They said the pool is closed until further notice. They said chaplain support is available for the individuals, their families, and those who were on the scene.
Col. Deedrick Reese, Installation and 78th Air Base Wing commander said in a statement:
"Our hearts are broken for these individuals and their families. We remain committed to supporting our Airmen and their loved ones as we navigate this difficult time for Team Robins. We want to thank the first responders – including lifeguards, installation and community personnel – who responded to this tragic incident with compassion and professionalism.”