A devastating explosion rocked the Hudson River in New York City on Saturday, May 24th, resulting in the tragic death of a longtime city employee. The incident occurred aboard a city-owned vessel, the Hunts Point, which was docked near the North River Wastewater Treatment Plant and responsible for transporting raw sewage for treatment.
The explosion, believed to have been caused by methane, occurred around 10:30 a.m. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the workers on board were performing tasks involving a flame or sparks when the blast erupted. One 59-year-old man was found unconscious in the river and pronounced dead at the scene. Another worker sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital, while a third refused medical attention.
Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement expressing his condolences and confirming that criminal activity is not suspected. He described the victim as a dedicated public servant with 33 years of service to the city. The Mayor’s office did not release the victim’s name, instead choosing to emphasize the profound loss to his family, friends, and colleagues.
The explosion also resulted in raw sewage being spread across the boat’s deck, necessitating decontamination procedures for first responders. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has since reported that there appears to be no significant environmental impact from the incident.
Authorities are currently investigating the precise cause of the explosion to prevent future tragedies. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by workers in various essential services, and underscores the importance of robust safety protocols in such hazardous environments.
