Update: March 20, 2017 – The tower tech that was injured on March 15, 2017 while dismantling a tower in Salina, Kan. is still in the hospital, but recovering, according to an individual knowledgeable of the accident. Randy Smith was employed by his own tower company operating under the business name of Randy Smith Tower Services of Rolla, Kan.
March 16, 2017 – A tower tech is in critical condition after he fell from a self-supporting tower that was being dismantled in Salina, Kan. yesterday morning.
According to multiple news reports, the accident happened at the former Rocking M Radio building on W. Cloud St.
In February, three radio stations that were located in the building moved into the Townsite Building at 131 N. Santa Fe Ave. in Downtown Salina.
Authorities said a crew was working to take down a section of a tower at the W. Cloud location when tower tech Randy Smith fell about 25 feet and landed on the roof of a nearby building
According to a Google Earth image, at right, the structure is within a fenced ground level compound.
The Salina Fire Department responded, and removed Smith from the roof. He was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, then transferred to a Wichita hospital to be treated for injuries that include several broken bones and a punctured lung.
Wireless Estimator will provide additional details as they become available.