A college homecoming party in Williamsburg, Virginia, turned chaotic Friday night when a back deck collapsed, resulting in at least 28 injuries. William & Mary confirmed that students were among those hurt in the incident, which occurred at an off-campus home.
Emergency services were dispatched to the 200 block of Matoaka Court around 10:07 p.m. following a report of a structure collapse. Upon arrival, responders found that the residence's back deck had given way.
City officials reported on Saturday morning that 13 individuals were transported to hospitals by emergency crews, while an additional 15 people sought their own medical treatment. All reported injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Neighbors at the scene told local media that a homecoming party was in progress when the deck failed. One resident described the extensive presence of emergency vehicles, with ambulances lining the street and extending down the block.
A student who lives adjacent to the home recounted that some of his classmates were involved and that neighbors assisted those affected by providing rides and support. He praised the community's response, stating, "We did everything we could to help each other out and I think that that’s beautiful."
In a statement to the campus community, William & Mary's senior vice president for student affairs and public safety, Ginger Ambler, acknowledged the incident and indicated the university was still gathering information. She noted that more students might have sought medical attention beyond those initially accounted for and expressed gratitude that no injuries were life-threatening. University staff from various support offices were mobilized to assist affected students.
Ambler added, "We recognize that such an experience may affect our students deeply and in different ways."
The student also commended the swift response of emergency personnel.
The city's Codes Compliance Division has begun an evaluation and inspection of the site.