28 Injured in Virginia Deck Collapse During College Homecoming Party
William & Mary confirms students were among those hurt when a deck gave way at an off-campus residence.
A homecoming party in Williamsburg, Virginia, turned chaotic Friday night when a deck collapsed at an off-campus home, resulting in at least 28 injuries. William & Mary confirmed that students were among those affected by the incident, which occurred around 10:07 p.m. on the 200 block of Matoaka Court.
Emergency responders found the home's back deck had given way. City officials reported that all injuries sustained were non-life-threatening. Thirteen individuals were transported to hospitals by emergency crews, while an additional 15 people reportedly sought medical attention on their own.
Neighbors described a significant emergency response, with ambulances and fire trucks lining the street. One neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, told WAVY that they saw at least nine ambulances and many stretchers being removed. Another resident noted that the collapse happened during a homecoming party and that some of his classmates were involved.
William & Mary's senior vice president for student affairs and public safety, Ginger Ambler, issued a statement acknowledging the incident. She confirmed that the university was gathering information and that more students might have sought treatment beyond the initial count. "We are grateful that none of the injuries were life-threatening," Ambler stated, adding that university staff from various support offices were assisting affected students.
Residents praised the quick response of emergency services. One student, Joshua Wise, who lives next door, returned home to find his housemate assisting partygoers. Wise commended the community's efforts to help one another following the collapse.
The city's Codes Compliance Division is currently evaluating and inspecting the site of the structural failure.