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From deep inside a concrete pillar, a call for help

Print | Comments () Posted by John Ellement March 31, 2011 12:20 PM

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Boston Fire Department

Boston firefighters are shown as they pull Edward Rowe to the surface on Wednesday.

By Mike Bello and John R. Ellement, Globe Staff

Despite falling 30 feet into the interior of a concrete pillar, Edward Rowe remained calm as he struggled to alert co-workers of the life-threatening danger he suddenly found himself in.

“1820 to Central,’’ Rowe radioed Wednesday morning to his supervisors the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s dispatcher. “I fell into a manhole.’’

Listen to Rowe's call
to the dispatcher:

“Sorry, sir, you fell into a manhole?” the T dispatcher replied. “Can you tell me exactly where you are so I can get you some help?’’

Rowe then struggled to provide some more information on his location -- he was at the Red Line's Charles Street/MGH Station at the time -- as the T dispatcher ordered another worker, known by the radio call sign of 146, to see if he could discover where Rowe was.

The T worker known as 146 started shouting, “Hello!’’ and then suddenly heard Rowe shouting back in reply.

“Help!’’ Rowe could be heard shouting.

The T worker swore and then told the dispatcher that Rowe needed the Boston Fire Department and medical assistance.

Over the next several hours, Boston firefighters launched a rescue effort that ended with Rowe being safely pulled out from 30 feet from inside the concrete structure.

The MBTA says Rowe is in the intensive care unit at Massachusetts General Hospital recovering from surgery. His family has requested privacy during his recovery.

The Globe reported extensively on the accident and the rescue effort by the Boston Fire Department in today's editions. Read more.