LOS ANGELES, Feb 1, (Agencies): Tragedy struck near Boise Airport in Idaho on Wednesday evening at around 5:00 pm MT when a hangar under construction collapsed, resulting in three fatalities and nine individuals sustaining injuries.

Despite the unfortunate incident, airport operations remained unaffected, though the surrounding area experienced increased traffic as emergency crews swiftly responded to the scene. The collapsed structure was identified as a privately owned hangar situated at W Rickenbacker Street and Luke Street, as per a press release from the Boise Fire Department.

Emergency responders were promptly dispatched, engaging in search and rescue operations. The initial fire crews prioritized stabilizing the scene and conducted multiple victim rescues due to the nature of the collapse. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives on-site, and five of the nine injured were in critical condition. The injured parties were promptly transported to local hospitals for medical attention.

The Ada County Coroner's Office will release the names of the deceased pending notification of their next of kin. Visuals from the incident depicted a tangled heap of metal, with authorities securing the vicinity by cordoning off nearby roads.

Division Chief of Operations Aaron Hummel provided insights into the chaotic scene, stating, "Tonight, there was a catastrophic collapse of a metal structure at a construction site. First responders found a hectic scene and worked to secure and rescue victims. The Boise Airport, City of Boise, and all first responders extend their deepest sympathies to those impacted."