Midtown Manhattan was hit by a terrifying accident on July 26 as a crane caught fire and partially collapsed off a high-rise building. The incident, which unfolded around 7:35 a.m., left six people injured, including two firefighters, and caused significant damage to surrounding areas. Officials reported that if the accident had occurred later in the morning, the consequences could have been much worse.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene as debris littered the streets below the construction site. One woman recounted the horrifying moment when the crane struck her apartment window, causing the glass to shatter in her face.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, speaking at a news conference shortly after the incident, emphasized the city's fortunate timing in avoiding further casualties.
"We were extremely, extremely lucky," he said, acknowledging the potential for greater tragedy had the collapse happened later in the day when more people would have been in the vicinity.
.@NYCMayor is on scene and being briefed on the crane collapse this morning in Hell’s Kitchen.
— City of New York (@nycgov) July 26, 2023
He’ll be holding a media briefing shortly that will be streamed on @NYPDnews. pic.twitter.com/sjeinuShEP
Authorities immediately sprung into action to deal with the situation. Firefighting teams were dispatched to extinguish the fire on the crane, ensuring the safety of residents and workers in the surrounding area. Following this, crews began planning to disassemble the damaged crane to prevent any further risks.
As per NYC Department of Buildings Commissioner James Oddo, the building where the incident occurred is a 54-story structure located at 550 10th Avenue. The crane itself struck another building across the street at 555 10th Avenue, causing damage to both structures.
The cause of the accident was attributed to a fire that broke out while the crane operator was in the process of moving 16 tons of concrete. The operator attempted to extinguish the fire, but the intense heat compromised the crane's cable, leading to the partial collapse. Fortunately, the quick-thinking crane operator managed to evacuate safely before the collapse occurred.
As emergency services continue to secure the area and assess the damage, the NYPD is urging people to avoid 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue from West 41st Street to West 42nd Street. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as authorities work to contain the situation and investigate the incident further.
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