Ceiling collapse at Kalispell Walgreens trapped two employees, officials say

Two employees of the Kalispell Walgreens were trapped after the ceiling caved in above their breakroom Sunday.

The Kalispell Fire Department responded to a call from the 40 W. Idaho St. drugstore just after 3:30 p.m., May 14, and dispatched an engine and an ambulance, according to Deputy Fire Chief Jessica Kinzer.

Upon arrival, firefighters disabled and drained the building’s sprinkler system, which had been damaged by the collapse.

First responders then cut through an interior wall to free the trapped employees, one of whom was taken by ambulance to Logan Health.

The ceiling that collapsed over the break room was being used for paper storage, Kinzer said.

The pharmacy is expected to reopen by Wednesday according to a Walgreens spokesperson.

Customers can pick up their prescriptions at the Whitefish Walgreens location at 700 13th St. E., according to the company representative.

Reporter Adrian Knowler can be reached at aknowler@dailyinterlake.com.