MARGATE, FLA. (WSVN) - Officials are investigating a possible drowning on the job in Margate.
Rescue crews responded to a canal in the backyard of a home near Pine Island Road and Royal Palm Boulevard, at around 8:40 a.m., Monday.
According to first responders a man was underwater doing some dredging work when the bank of the canal collapsed, leaving him trapped underneath.
The man’s anchored boat at the surface has now become part of the investigation.
Broward Sheriff’s Office divers have been searching the canal for the man for several hours.
The operation has changed from a search-and-rescue mission to a recovery mission.
First responders said due to the murky condition of the canal and because of the partial collapse of the bank, it is nearly impossible to look underwater and search for the man.
Neighbors said the work in the canal has been ongoing for several weeks.
The identity of the man and the company he worked for remains unknown at this time.
The Margate Police Department is leading the investigation.
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