On April 13, a construction worker from Brooklyn was working on a site in SoHo located at the intersection of Broome and Varick Streets. There, at the Holland Tunnel, he and his crew toiled, working the graveyard shift to assemble a huge crane. At approximately 3:15 a.m., a counterweight weighing 7.5 tons slammed into him. According to New York City officials, he died at the site.
He leaves behind a fiance and 5-month old baby boy.
The worker, 34, was split in two from the impact. A co-worker also suffered injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening. He received treatment at a nearby medical facility. Additionally, two others on the job who saw the grisly accident occur were so traumatized they also were taken to the hospital.
The deceased worker’s brother was also working at the site, although fortunately, he did not witness the accident that claimed his brother’s life. The brother stated to a local news outlet that he felt “bad because I brought him into the company.” He stated that he “saw the aftermath” and was still trying to process it.
Although authorities were unable to confirm this account, the deceased worker’s sister claimed that her brother was killed after pushing a co-worker out of harm’s way.
The Department of Buildings (DOB) continues its investigation into the fatal accident and has issued a stop work order. They also ordered that the crane be taken down and removed.
If you are a construction worker here in New York City, you face daily dangers on the job. Those who get injured and the survivors of those who were killed may choose to seek compensation for their injuries, losses and damages.
