Search for worker who fell off N.C. bridge halted

Posted to: News North Carolina
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By Catherine Kozak
David Putney
The Virginian-Pilot
© April 28, 2010

MANNS HARBOR, N.C.

The Coast Guard has suspended a search today for a man who fell off the William B. Umstead Bridge on Tuesday.

After an 11.5-hour search of 300 square miles using a helicopter and boats, the effort by the Coast Guard, state and local rescue crews was suspended pending further developments.

The man, who has not been identified, fell about 15 to 20 feet at around 8 a.m. from the bridge, known locally as the old Manns Harbor bridge, said Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark Jones.

A co-worker from Tarpon Springs, Fla.-based VHP Enterprises Inc. who had jumped in to save the man was rescued by a boat from Dare County, Jones said.

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