A city worker with the Department of Environmental Protection was killed and two others were injured early Saturday in an explosion aboard a tanker on the Hudson River near the city sewage treatment plant in Upper Manhattan, city officials said. The unfortunate incident took place around 10:30 a.m., near the North River Wastewater Treatment Plant off of 138th Street in Harlem. FDNY Deputy Assistant Chief David Simms provided details at a press conference regarding the explosion that occurred on the city-owned vessel.
The three workers who were injured were actually “operating the vessel,” according to Simms. One man was even flung in between the pier and the exploding vessel, which ultimately led to his unfortunate passing. The second injured worker was rushed to an area hospital, as confirmed by a DEP spokesperson. Surprisingly, the third worker declined medical attention at the scene, showing a remarkable level of resilience. The identities of the workers involved have not been disclosed at this time.
DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala expressed his sorrow over the loss of the worker, highlighting his 33 years of dedicated service to the Department and the city. The deceased worker was a highly valued and experienced member of the Bureau of Wastewater Treatment, showcasing his unwavering commitment to DEP’s mission. Mayor Eric Adams also shared his devastation upon hearing the news, emphasizing the city’s priority of ensuring the safety and well-being of all employees and residents. He pledged full support for the investigation and implementation of preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, as stated by Deputy Assistant Chief Simms. The North River plant, located on a 28-acre reinforced concrete platform over the Hudson River, serves as the backdrop for a recreational complex known as Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park. Additional information may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.
