TAMWORTH, N.H. — A wedding celebration in the White Mountains of New Hampshire turned chaotic Saturday afternoon when a portion of the floor collapsed at The Preserve at Chocorua, sending multiple guests tumbling into the building’s basement. Six people were transported to area hospitals with injuries described as non-life-threatening, according to officials with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office. The incident, which occurred around 4:30 p.m., prompted a large-scale response from multiple emergency agencies.
The collapse happened while a wedding party of approximately 140 people was gathered at the venue, according to initial reports from first responders. While the scene was one of immediate concern, authorities quickly confirmed that there were no fatalities. The Preserve at Chocorua, a popular destination for weddings and events in the region, remains closed as investigators work to determine the cause of the structural failure. This incident raises questions about building safety and inspection protocols for event venues, particularly in older structures.
Structural Failure Under Investigation
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office has taken the lead in investigating the cause of the floor collapse. A spokesperson confirmed that investigators are on scene and will be examining the structural integrity of the building. “We are working to determine what led to this collapse and ensure the safety of anyone who may be affected,” the spokesperson said. The investigation will likely focus on factors such as the age of the building, the materials used in its construction, and whether any recent renovations or modifications may have contributed to the incident. The Preserve at Chocorua, located in the rural town of Tamworth, approximately 115 miles north of Concord, a community of roughly 2,800 residents, has not yet released a statement regarding the collapse.
A first responder at the scene described a significant portion of the floor giving way, estimating that roughly half of the area where the wedding ceremony was planned had fallen into the basement. The responder relayed the need for additional personnel to assist in interviewing witnesses and carefully extracting individuals from the building. The initial response involved a coordinated effort from multiple agencies, including the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and local fire departments.
Emergency Response and Patient Transport
Dispatch audio confirmed the multi-agency response to the incident at The Preserve at Chocorua. Carroll County Sheriff’s Office dispatchers confirmed the response but declined to provide further details Saturday night. Attempts to reach MaineHealth Memorial Hospital for information on the patients transported from the scene were unsuccessful. Yet, the Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed that six individuals were taken to area hospitals with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The nature of those injuries has not been publicly released.
The swift response from emergency personnel was crucial in ensuring that all attendees were accounted for and that those injured received immediate medical attention. First responders focused on systematically clearing the building and providing support to those who were shaken by the event. The scene was secured to allow investigators to begin their work.
What We Know About The Preserve at Chocorua
The Preserve at Chocorua is a well-known venue in the region, hosting numerous weddings and events throughout the year. The venue boasts a rustic charm and picturesque setting, attracting couples and event planners from across New England. Details about the building’s history and construction are currently limited, but the Fire Marshal’s Office investigation will likely uncover more information about its structural background. The venue’s website currently remains online, but does not address the incident. Attempts to contact the venue directly by phone have been unsuccessful.
Looking Ahead: Investigation and Safety Reviews
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office investigation is expected to take several days, if not weeks, to complete. Investigators will be meticulously examining the site, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine the precise cause of the floor collapse. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future. It’s likely that the investigation will also prompt a review of building codes and inspection procedures for event venues throughout the state.
Authorities have not yet announced a timeline for when The Preserve at Chocorua will be allowed to reopen. The venue will remain closed until investigators have determined that We see safe for public occupancy. Updates on the investigation will be released by the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office as they grow available. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Fire Marshal’s Office.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress related to this event, resources are available. You can reach the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
The investigation into the cause of this floor collapse at a New Hampshire wedding venue is ongoing, and officials will provide further updates as they become available. We will continue to follow this story and provide our readers with the latest information.
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