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Fatal fall in Manhattan
A 56-year-old woman died after plunging three metres into an open maintenance hole on Fifth Avenue in New York City late Monday, police reported.
Incident details
Officers arrived at the scene shortly before midnight following an emergency call. They discovered Donike Gocaj, from Briarcliff Manor, New York, unconscious at the bottom of the uncovered manhole. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Utility company responds
Con Edison, the local utility provider, stated that video footage suggests a truck dislodged the manhole cover approximately 12 minutes before Gocaj parked her car near the site.
"While such incidents are rare, manhole covers can be displaced by heavy vehicles. Our deepest sympathies go out to her family, and safety remains our top priority,"
Con Edison spokesperson
The company is reviewing the circumstances and has not yet provided further comment to media inquiries.
Family speaks out
Gocaj's relatives visited the scene on Tuesday, expressing shock and confusion over the tragedy. Her daughter-in-law, visibly distressed, told reporters there were no cones, warning signs, or barriers around the open hole.
Investigation underway
Police confirmed an ongoing investigation but stated no criminal activity is suspected at this stage. The city's medical examiner will determine the official cause of death.
Broader context
Open manholes are a recurring issue in New York City. The Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees the city's water and sewer infrastructure-including 100,000 active manholes-has received over 700 service requests for uncovered manholes this year alone, according to reports.
