A sinkhole in Seffner, Florida, known for claiming the life of Jeff Bush in 2013, has opened for the third time. The sinkhole, located roughly 15 miles east of Tampa, has sparked concerns for the safety of the surrounding community.
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Following the incident in 2013, when Jeff Bush fell into the sinkhole while he was in his bedroom, Hillsborough County filled the hole and acquired the adjacent property to ensure no one lived in close proximity. However, in 2015, the sinkhole reappeared, measuring around 20 feet wide, but fortunately, no injuries were reported at that time.
On Monday, county officials were notified that the sinkhole had reopened. Steps were taken to ensure the safety of nearby residents, and it was confirmed that their homes were not at risk. Authorities are currently investigating the cause behind the sinkhole’s reoccurrence, with a remediation contractor drafting a plan for filling the hole.
The remediation work is expected to commence soon, involving the filling of the sinkhole with a water-and-gravel mixture weighing approximately 150 tons. To ensure public safety, the site has been closed off with two layers of fencing.
The reopening of the sinkhole has evoked painful memories for Jeff Bush’s brother, Jeremy Bush, who vividly recalls the horrifying night in 2013 when he heard his brother’s cries for help before he vanished into the ground. The recent incident serves as a haunting reminder of the tragic loss Jeremy endured, as he continues to grapple with the memories of that fateful night.
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Sinkholes are a common occurrence in Florida due to the state’s geological composition. The region sits on a bedrock composed of limestone or other carbonate rock, which can be eroded by acidic groundwater, leading to the formation of voids that collapse under the weight above them.
As the investigation into the sinkhole’s reopening continues, local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community and preventing any further incidents.