California wharf collapse sends 3 into the Pacific Ocean


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Rescuers pulled two people to safety and another person made it out on their own after the Santa Cruz Wharf in California partially collapsed Monday, Dec. 23, under a major storm surge.  About 150 feet of the pier had already been closed to the public because of damage from previous storms.

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It was that portion of the pier that collapsed into the Pacific Ocean. It included a restroom building and construction equipment used for repairing the wharf. Authorities said one of those who fell into the water was a manager on the construction project and the other two were contractors. 

Investigators immediately evacuated the wharf. It will remain closed indefinitely. 

The National Weather Service said the dangerous storm that led to the collapse will continue to impact beaches along the Pacific Coast throughout Tuesday, Dec. 24.

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