Atlantic City Firefighters Rappel 190 Feet to Save Two Women Trapped in Borgata Elevator

Late Thursday afternoon, a routine ride at the 42‑story Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa turned into a nail‑biting emergency when the elevator stalled, trapping two women inside the steel shaft.

When the call came in, fire officials in Atlantic City knew they were dealing with a high‑rise scenario that demanded more than just a ladder. “It’s the kind of situation you train for, but you never hope to face,” said Fire Chief Scott Evans, describing the pressure his team felt.

The department’s Special Operations unit sprang into action, rigging a sophisticated rope system that would let them descend into the blackened shaft. Two firefighters, equipped with harnesses, helmets, and a lot of focus, rappelled roughly 190 feet—almost the height of a 19‑story building—into the cramped, dimly lit space.

Inside, the women were shaken but alive. Visibility was poor, and every movement had to be deliberate. The crew secured the first woman, gently lifted her to the surface, and set her down on the concrete floor of the casino lobby. A brief pause followed, then the second rescue began.

At about 8:20 p.m., nearly three hours after the first lift, the second woman was safely hoisted out. Both survivors were evaluated by EMTs on site before being escorted to a nearby hospital for further checks. Their identities have not been released out of respect for privacy.

Chief Evans praised his team, noting, “It requires absolute trust in your training and your gear. Our crews executed this high‑angle rope rescue flawlessly, moving methodically to secure the occupants and hoist them to safety.” He added that the operation underscores why the Atlantic City Fire Department emphasizes rigorous high‑rise emergency drills.

While the incident left a buzz among onlookers and casino staff, it also highlighted the dedication of a fire department that routinely trains for the unexpected—whether it’s a blaze on a high floor or a trapped passenger in an elevator shaft.

Local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the elevator malfunction, but for now, the focus remains on the brave firefighters who descended into darkness and emerged with two lives restored.