Teen Dies After Fall in Vacant Downtown New Orleans High-Rise
A 17-year-old boy died after falling from an open stairwell inside the derelict Plaza Tower in downtown New Orleans. The teen was part of a group of minors who had broken into the vacant high-rise for urban exploring.
Nashville, TN, August 15, 2026 —
A 17-year-old male has died after falling inside the abandoned Plaza Tower in downtown New Orleans. The incident occurred as the teen was reportedly part of a group of minors engaged in urban exploration within the vacant high-rise.
The boy fell from an open stairwell within the derelict building. The exact circumstances leading to the fall have not been fully detailed. Authorities were called to the scene following the incident.
The Plaza Tower, a long-standing vacant property in the city’s central business district, has been a site of interest for individuals seeking to explore abandoned structures. Accessing such properties can pose significant safety risks due to their deteriorated condition and lack of security.
Details regarding the other minors present at the time of the incident and any actions taken by authorities in relation to the group’s presence in the building were not immediately available. The New Orleans Police Department is expected to provide further information as the investigation progresses.
The Plaza Tower has been a notable feature of the New Orleans skyline for decades. Its prolonged vacancy has led to concerns about its structural integrity and potential safety hazards for trespassers. This incident highlights the dangers associated with unauthorized entry into derelict buildings.
Story summarized from the original created by Ken Daley, Gray News staff on www.wsmv.com, see more information here.
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