Teen Dies After Fall in Vacant New Orleans High-Rise During Urban Exploration
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 who broke into the vacant high-rise for urban exploring. Another teen was hospitalized with…
Charlotte, NC, August 15, 2026 —
A 17-year-old boy has died after falling from an open stairwell inside the abandoned Plaza Tower in downtown New Orleans. The incident occurred when the teen was part of a group exploring the derelict high-rise.
Another teenager sustained injuries and was hospitalized following the fall. The identities of the individuals involved have not been publicly released.
The Plaza Tower, a vacant high-rise located in the central business district, has a documented history of disrepair and has been the site of previous fatalities. The building’s condition and lack of security have been ongoing concerns.
Urban exploration, also known as ‘urbex,’ involves individuals entering abandoned or derelict structures to document them, often through photography or video. This activity carries inherent risks, especially in buildings that are not maintained and may have structural hazards.
Further details regarding the circumstances of the break-in and the specific conditions within the stairwell at the time of the fall have not yet been provided. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
Story summarized from the original created by Ken Daley, Gray News staff on www.wbtv.com, see more information here.
