Large emergency response in Sterling after ledge at rock quarry collapses on worker

There is a large emergency response underway in Sterling after a ledge at a rock quarry collapsed on a worker on Thursday morning, officials said.

Rocks fell on the worker in the area of an Onyx Corporation site near Chocksett Road just after 8 a.m., according to the Sterling Fire Department.

In a post on Facebook at 9 a.m., the department said firefighters and other emergency agencies were working at the “active” scene.

🚨 The Sterling Fire Department and multiple other agencies are currently operating at the scene of an active incident...

Posted by Sterling, MA Fire Department on Thursday, August 22, 2024

While there is no safety threat, the public was also urged to avoid the area until further notice.

Onyx Corporation operates a demolition and excavation company in the area of Chocksett Road, providing sand, gravel, and other aggregate needs.

After the ledge collapsed, the Sterling Select Board held an emergency meeting and sent a cease-and-desist order to Onyx, calling on them to suspend earth removal until after an investigation is conducted at the site, Town Administrator William Caldwell confirmed in a statement.

In a Facebook post, Onyx announced the closure of their locations in Acton, Leominster, Westford, and Sterling through the weekend.

Onyx has closed ALL LOCATIONS from today through the weekend. We will resume business on Monday 8/26.

Posted by Onyx Corporation on Thursday, August 22, 2024

Onyx declined to comment on the incident when contacted by Boston 25 News.

Boston 25 News photographer Ken Lucas flew a drone over the quarry, capturing video of a large pile of boulders and multiple excavators roped off with yellow tape.

There were no additional details immediately available.

An investigation is ongoing.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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