Worker flown to hospital after fall from Valley High School auditorium ceiling

A contractor working above the drop ceiling in the auditorium at Valley High School in New Kensington was injured after falling about 30 feet, according to authorities.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the high school on Stevenson Boulevard shortly before 10:30 a.m., according to a Westmoreland County 911 dispatcher.

No information was available about the extent of the victim’s injuries, but a medical helicopter was dispatched to the high school to airlift the patient for treatment, the 911 dispatcher said.

The high school was temporarily placed in lockdown to make sure the hallways were clear for medical personnel who arrived and to prevent students from leaving the building while the medical evacuation helicopter was on the scene.

Superintendent Chris Sefcheck said the contractor was working on the heating and air-conditioning system above the ceiling. He was on a permanent catwalk with handrails when he fell.

The superintendent declined to identify the company doing the work or the name of the man who was hurt because he was unsure if his family had been notified.

Sefcheck said the fall was witnessed by several students. Administrators and counselors are being made available for students who are experiencing anxiety, grief or other mental health issues as a result of witnessing the incident.

“We thank the efforts of all individuals that helped with this difficult situation,” Sefcheck said in a statement sent to parents. “Please encourage your child to speak to a professional faculty member if they need.”