A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in New York City after a construction worker fell 30 feet down an open manhole, with emergency services working swiftly to bring him to safety.
The Incident and Emergency Response
The accident occurred on 20 November at approximately 8:45 a.m. near West 170th Street in the Washington Heights neighbourhood. A 35-year-old construction worker plunged down the manhole, prompting an immediate response from the NYPD and FDNY.
Bodycam footage released by the police shows the intricate rescue operation. Officers from the Emergency Service Unit secured the area before coordinating with New York City firefighters to reach the man. The mission was complicated by the discovery that the rungs lining the manhole shaft had rotted away, making the descent more hazardous for the rescue team.
The Daring Descent and Rescue
The video footage captures the intense moments as first responders, clad in reflective vests, carefully lowered at least one police officer and a firefighter down the 30-foot drop. They can be heard communicating and manoeuvring equipment to assist the injured worker below.
After reaching the man, the team secured him to a backboard. As they began the delicate process of hoisting him back to the surface, an officer is heard reassuring others, “You’re alright. He’s alright.” The worker was successfully pulled up to street level and rushed to medical care.
Aftermath and Recovery
The NYPD spokesperson confirmed that the construction worker was transported to New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and was listed in stable condition. Reports from the New York Daily News later indicated that the man was treated at the hospital and subsequently released.
Celebrating the successful operation, the NYPD News account posted on X, “One unexpected drop. One expert rescue. When a construction worker fell through a manhole cover, @NYPDSpecialops ESU secured the scene, worked with @FDNY to safely reach him, and get them medical care.”
