Worker at Bellagio Killed During Preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix

Article by : Erik Gibbs Sep 26, 2023

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On Saturday, at approximately 11:30 AM, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department responded to an urgent call from the construction site in and around the temporary street circuit. The report indicated a serious injury to a worker, but the result was much worse.

A tragic incident occurred during preparations for the inaugural Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix scheduled for November 16-18. A construction worker died while engaged in activities near the Bellagio fountains on the bustling Las Vegas Strip.

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, the worker sustained a severe neck laceration. This unfortunate incident occurred as MGM Resorts International was constructing a grandstand at

Bellagio Lake to offer VIP race viewing amid the iconic fountains.

After the incident, immediate action was taken, and the injured worker was transported to the Trauma Center at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada. However, despite efforts to save him, he was tragically pronounced dead.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has initiated an inquiry into this heart-wrenching event’s circumstances. Their investigation aims to determine if any measures could have been taken to prevent this loss of life.

The Hollywood Reporter notes that the construction of the racetrack and accompanying grandstands carries an estimated cost of approximately $560 million.

In anticipation of the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, construction efforts have been underway for the first Grand Prix on the Las Vegas Strip since 1982.

The 3.8-mile street circuit is designed to weave through the bustling city of Las Vegas, with an estimated attendance of 300,000 spectators. However, the construction of the racetrack and related facilities has faced several setbacks, leading to delays in completing preparations.

Moreover, in August, Liberty Media, the organizing entity, provided an update on the progress of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, acknowledging that setup costs had exceeded initial expectations.

Brian Wilding, Liberty Media’s Chief Financial Officer, disclosed that the total Capital Expenditure (CapEx) for the Vegas race, encompassing expenses for the paddock building structure and track-related CapEx, was anticipated to be nearly $600 million.

While race organizers and city officials remain resolute in ensuring the event is ready for the race weekend commencing on Friday, November 17, there is still uncertainty regarding whether racing activities will be held on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.