Worker Dies After 60-Foot Fall at Wichita Biomedical Campus

David Rodriguez, a 45-year-old construction worker, died after falling approximately 60 feet from scaffolding at the Wichita Biomedical Campus construction site in downtown Wichita on March 30, 2026.

The incident occurred just before 11:30 a.m. At the project site located at English and Topeka streets. Rodriguez fell seven stories and was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Rodriguez was a craft worker employed by Midwest Drywall, a trade partner on the project. Midwest Drywall is ranked No. 275 on ENR’s 2025 Top 600 Specialty Contractors list and No. 16 among leading wall and ceiling contractors.

Project Details and Oversight

The Wichita Biomedical Campus is a $300-million project involving the construction of a nine-story, 350,000-square-foot building. The facility is a joint effort between the University of Kansas Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Wichita State University Tech.

JE Dunn Construction and Hutton are serving as the joint venture general contractors for the development. Following the accident, Midwest Drywall halted work on the project.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating the incident.

Official Statements

In a statement to the media, Midwest Drywall confirmed the accident and stated it is heartbroken to confirm [the death] of a member of our team.

JE Dunn Construction also confirmed the death of the Midwest Drywall employee and emphasized the company’s commitment to safety.

Safety is our first priority on our jobsites, and we will participate in a complete investigation into this incident

JE Dunn Construction

Rodriguez was a married father of three. A GoFundMe organized for his family described him as a hard worker who lived to serve his friends and family.