Abandoned Newport Stable Collapses, Injuring 4 Children

NEWPORT, RI — Four boys were injured, three seriously, when an abandoned stable in Newport collapsed Monday afternoon, according to police.

Police said they were called to "The Bells," an abandoned mansion stable in Brenton Point State Park, around 3:49 p.m.

According to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), the roof collapsed after one boy climbed on top of it. DEM officials said a section of the roof collapsed under the boy’s weight, causing both the boy and a slab of concrete to fall about 25 feet onto two other boys who were inside "The Bells."

Two boys, ages 15 and 16, were taken to Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence. DEM officials said a 15-year-old boy was also airlifted to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries. The fourth victim, age 12, was treated for minor injuries and was not hospitalized.

The DEM installed fencing around the building more than 10 years ago and has prohibited entry to it for safety reasons. No trespassing signs are posted at the property.