Buried Truths and the Hyatt Skywalks: The Legacy of America's Epic Structural Failure

The Hyatt hotel in Kansas City had a skywalk collapse in 1981, killing 114 people and injuring 200. Richard A. Serrano's book explores the tragedy's causes, how it could have been avoided, and its lasting effects on engineering and the legal system. It draws on legal depositions, evidence, and recollections from survivors, first responders, and construction officials. The collapse was due to a new fast-track construction method with key decisions made on the fly, including changing the skywalk design. The disaster brought significant changes, such as tougher industry guidelines and PTSD treatment for responders, but also led to the controversial use of nondisclosure agreements. Survivors and witnesses still vividly recall the night.

Format: Hardback
Length: 380 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Purdue University Press

The sudden collapse of two skywalks in Kansas City's Hyatt hotel in 1981 resulted in a tragic loss of 114 lives and left another 200 injured. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, there was no public trial or comprehensive airing of the events that led to it. Richard A. Serrano, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who covered the tragedy at the time, returns to investigate the underlying causes, identify potential prevention measures, and assess the lasting effects on engineering, the legal system, and the survivors themselves.

Drawing on legal depositions, evidentiary material, and recollections from 240 survivors, first responders, and construction officials, Buried Truths and the Hyatt Skywalks presents a detailed account of this monumental catastrophe. The book explores the factors that contributed to the collapse, including the use of a new fast-track construction method that led to rushed decision-making and design changes. It also sheds light on the inadequate inspection and maintenance practices that allowed the skywalks to deteriorate despite warning signs.

The Hyatt disaster had far-reaching consequences, both positive and problematic. It led to the enforcement of tougher industry guidelines for US construction projects, aimed at preventing similar tragedies. However, the disaster also highlighted the limitations of the legal system in holding individuals and corporations accountable for their actions. The survivors faced long-term physical and psychological effects, with many struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and other mental health issues.

Buried Truths and the Hyatt Skywalks serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and safety in engineering and construction. It highlights the need for thorough inspections, proper maintenance, and adherence to industry standards to ensure the well-being of workers and the public. The book also raises important questions about the legal system's ability to handle complex disasters and the need for reforms to ensure that victims receive the compensation and support they deserve.

In conclusion, Buried Truths and the Hyatt Skywalks is a compelling and informative account of a tragic event that left a lasting impact on engineering, the legal system, and the lives of those affected. It sheds light on the need for transparency, accountability, and safety in all aspects of construction and raises important questions about the legal system's ability to handle complex disasters. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this tragic history and its lessons for the future.

Weight: 787g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781612497150