Worker Dies in 60-Foot Fall at Wichita Biomedical Campus

Construction worker David Rodriguez killed in scaffolding accident at $300M project site

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a construction worker's safety harness and fall protection equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the investigation into a fatal construction accident.A tragic construction site accident exposes the need for rigorous safety protocols and oversight to protect workers.Wichita Today

A 45-year-old construction worker named David Rodriguez died after falling approximately 60 feet from scaffolding at the Wichita Biomedical Campus construction site in downtown Wichita on March 30, 2026. Rodriguez, who was employed by subcontractor Midwest Drywall, fell seven stories and was transported to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Why it matters

Workplace safety is a major concern in the construction industry, with falls from heights being a leading cause of worker fatalities. This tragic incident at the high-profile Wichita Biomedical Campus project raises questions about safety protocols and oversight on the job site.

The details

The accident occurred just before 11:30 a.m. at the project site located at English and Topeka streets. Following the incident, Midwest Drywall halted work on the project. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating the incident.

  • The accident occurred on March 30, 2026, just before 11:30 a.m.

The players

David Rodriguez

A 45-year-old construction worker employed by Midwest Drywall, a trade partner on the Wichita Biomedical Campus project.

Midwest Drywall

A trade partner on the Wichita Biomedical Campus project, ranked No. 275 on ENR's 2025 Top 600 Specialty Contractors list and No. 16 among leading wall and ceiling contractors.

JE Dunn Construction

One of the joint venture general contractors for the Wichita Biomedical Campus development.

Wichita Biomedical Campus

A $300-million project involving the construction of a nine-story, 350,000-square-foot building, a joint effort between the University of Kansas Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Wichita State University Tech.

U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The federal agency currently investigating the fatal scaffolding accident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating the incident to determine the cause of the fatal fall and whether any safety protocols were violated.

The takeaway

This tragic workplace accident highlights the importance of rigorous safety measures and oversight on construction sites to protect workers. The investigation into this incident may lead to changes in industry practices and regulations aimed at preventing similar fatalities in the future.