Backhoe Accident Halts Courthouse Square Demolition

March 3, 2026 11:19 am

Work at the Courthouse Square demolition site on Beau Street in Washington is on hold after an excavator tipped over into a hole.  It happened just after nine-thirty Tuesday morning. Washington County officials say the operator of the machine was able to get out without injury and was never trapped inside. The individual was evaluated on the scene by medics but was not taken to the hospital. County officials say they have requested a public safety incident report from the general contractor, including information about the operator and his condition, as well as the company he was employed by. Washington Mayor JoJo Burgess tells us that the demolition will likely be put on hold for the foreseeable future until the Occupational Safety and Health Administration concludes its investigation.