Worker Trapped In Sign Records Goodbye Messages To His Family

Incident Overview

An electrician, A.J. Gallon, was servicing a large roadside sign about 130 feet in the air near a truck stop outside Chicago when he became trapped inside the sign’s structure.

During the incident, Gallon’s partner had descended in the bucket to retrieve water in the heat. However, when she attempted to assist him, the lift would not allow her to reposition in a way that could free him.

Gallon’s Struggle

As hours passed without water, Gallon began to experience heat exhaustion, including nausea and dizziness. He grew increasingly desperate, focusing on a single priority: getting water and getting out.

Farewell Message

As the situation worsened, Gallon recorded a farewell message to his wife and children in case he did not survive. In the message, he told them he loved them and wanted his family to know what was happening.

Rescue Efforts

Rescue efforts were delayed because fire truck ladders could only reach 100 feet, leaving rescuers about 30 feet short. After approximately six hours, a boom crane from a nearby construction site was brought in with a police escort.

Once the crane reached him, Gallon was safely pulled out and transported to safety.

Aftermath

When Gallon finally returned home, he reportedly went straight to hugging and kissing his family, turning the ordeal into an emotional reunion.

Presenters/Contributors

• A.J. Gallon
• A.J. Gallon’s co-worker/partner (name not provided in subtitles)