Prior to its collapse, a construction crane in New York City catches on fire
New York City authorities say 6 injured, including 2 firefighters, in crane arm collapse
Authorities in New York City are issuing a warning to the public to steer clear of a Manhattan area following a construction crane catching fire and partially collapsing, leading to 16 tons of concrete and debris falling onto the streets.
According to officials, at least six people have been injured, including two firefighters who were responding to the incident. Thankfully, New York City Mayor Eric Adams stated that the injuries were minor, expressing gratitude that the situation was not more severe.
The incident occurred around 7:25 a.m., when the FDNY received reports of a fire in the crane’s engine compartment, situated about 45 stories high. As the fire units rushed to the scene, the crane’s upper part, or boom, along with a 16-ton load of concrete, collapsed to the ground, causing injuries to civilians and firefighters.
Video footage on social media captured the moment the crane arm detached from the building, striking another building across the street, and causing debris to rain down. Panic ensued as people were seen fleeing from the area.
The New York City Police Department urged the public to avoid the vicinity of 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue from West 41st Street to West 42nd Street due to the crane collapse.
By around 9:30 a.m. local time, the majority of the fire, which had escalated to a five-alarm fire, was extinguished, but about 200 first responders remained at the scene.
The exact cause of the fire remains uncertain, and the building under construction, intended to be a 54-story mixed-use structure, had all the required permits in place for the project, as per officials.
First responders faced challenges in reaching the fire due to inadequate water pressure for hosing. Con Edison, the energy company, was present at the scene, prepared to cut off gas in the area if necessary, as one of its main lines runs beneath 10th Avenue.
The crane operator noticed the fire initially and attempted to extinguish it, receiving commendation from authorities for their efforts. However, the fire overwhelmed the operator, leading them to evacuate the crane safely.
Following the fire’s complete extinguishment, the crane will be dismantled, as announced by Mayor Eric Adams.
