'The Bells' In Newport Getting Demolished In 3 Months: Report

NEWPORT, RI — The ruins of "The Bells," a crumbling stone structure at Brenton Point State Park in Newport, will be torn down later this year, according to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

DEM spokesperson Michael Healey told WPR 12 "The Bells" will be demolished in about three months, though an exact date for demolition has not yet been scheduled.

"The Bells" used to be a grand estate. It was first built in 1876, but was destroyed in a fire and has been dilapidated ever since. Despite a fence and no-trespassing signs surrounding the building, people do occasionally sneak in.

Last week, four children were injured after sneaking in and climbing the roof of a stable on the property, authorities said.

According to the DEM, the roof collapsed after one boy climbed on top of it. DEM officials said a section of the roof collapsed under the boy’s weight, causing the boy and a concrete slab to fall about 25 feet onto two other boys who were inside "The Bells."

Two boys, ages 15 and 16, were taken to Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence. DEM officials said a 15-year-old boy was also airlifted to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries. The fourth victim, age 12, was treated for minor injuries and was not hospitalized.