A forklift operator was swallowed by an 8-foot-deep sinkhole when the floor of the New Jersey warehouse where he was working gave way underneath him.
Officials said the man was rescued and taken to a hospital with minor injuries after the fall into the hole in East Rutherford Monday afternoon.
The warehouse, which stores nonperishable food, was evacuated after the floor collapsed. The hole was described as being about 40 feet by 40 feet wide.
Rescuers said the forklift helped protect the man, shielding him from being crushed when he fell.
Building inspectors were investigating.
--Jen Maxfield contributed to this story
