Tired of ads? Subscribers enjoy a distraction-free reading experience.
Click here to subscribe today or Login.

WILKES-BARRE — Officials have filled the hole caused by mine subsidence that swallowed a Bowman Street resident last week.

Colleen Connolly, spokeswoman for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), said crews filled the hole with rock and soil on Tuesday. She added that no further action would be taken in the area.

Rhonda Martini, 52, was doing gardening work in the backyard of her Bowman Street home when she struck a spot in the dirt with a pitchfork and a hole opened up beneath her feet.

After her daughter helped get her out of the hole, Martini called 911, and fire officials sectioned off the hole using caution tape. Martini said she only sustained bumps and bruises from falling in the hole, and declined medical attention.

Connolly confirmed the hole was the result of mine subsidence, and said the hole was approximately 8 feet deep.

Connolly urged residents in the area to be on the lookout for any new, major shifts or cracks in home foundations.

Rhonda Martini talks about falling into a hole that opened suddenly in her backyard Sunday.
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/web1_web1_TTL062116hole2-8.jpg.optimal.jpgRhonda Martini talks about falling into a hole that opened suddenly in her backyard Sunday.

By Travis Kellar

[email protected]