Security camera footage showed Jose Vergara entering the elevator and the doors closing normally. But within seconds, the doors open and floors can be seen flying by with Vergara frantically pushing buttons.
According to rescuers, Mr Vergara was found with injuries to his head and legs when the elevator apparently slammed into the roof.
He was taken to a nearby hospital where he remains in serious condition.
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His wife, Carolina Rodriguez, said the accident changed everything for them.
"I've been studying and working really well, in a good job. Things were going well for us. And in 15 seconds, that was gone," she said.
The incident remains under invesitgation.
