by New York City, NY — A routine workday turned into a life-threatening emergency when a 35-year-old construction worker plummeted nearly 30 feet into an open manhole in Washington Heights on the morning of November 20. According to the NYPD, the worker fell at approximately 8:45 a.m. near West 170th Street, prompting an urgent multi-agency rescue response.
Bodycam Footage Shows High-Risk Rescue Operation
Newly released body-worn camera footage reveals the intense moments as Emergency Service Unit (ESU) officers and FDNY firefighters worked together to retrieve the injured man from deep underground. The video shows responders securing ropes, harnesses, and specialized gear before lowering at least one ESU officer and a firefighter into the dark manhole shaft.
At one point, a first responder can be heard warning colleagues that the metal ladder rungs inside the manhole had decayed, making them unusable and increasing the danger for rescuers. Despite the treacherous conditions, teams communicated meticulously as they descended, determined to reach the injured worker.
“You’re Alright” — Officers Reassure Injured Worker
Video shows the worker lying on a backboard as responders prepare to hoist him up. As the team begins lifting him to safety, one officer offers reassurance, saying, “You’re alright. He’s alright.”
The rescue required careful coordination from multiple officials working in tight quarters with limited visibility. After several tense minutes, the worker was successfully raised from the shaft and brought back to ground level.
Worker Hospitalized, Later Released
Emergency Medical Services transported the victim to NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where he arrived in stable condition, according to an NYPD spokesperson.
The New York Daily News later reported that the construction worker received treatment for his injuries and was released from the hospital shortly after.
NYPD and FDNY Praise Seamless Teamwork
Following the rescue, the NYPD’s official NYPD News account shared the dramatic footage on X, praising the coordinated efforts of ESU and FDNY crews.
The post read:
“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 him medical care.”
The incident highlights the ongoing dangers construction workers face across the city — especially when working near underground infrastructure that may be compromised or poorly maintained. It also underscores the critical importance of the highly trained ESU and FDNY teams who respond to life-threatening emergencies across New York City every day.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
Local residents expressed both relief and concern after learning about the accident. Some questioned whether the manhole had been properly secured. Others commended the first responders whose swift actions likely prevented a more tragic outcome.
City officials frequently remind construction crews and contractors to closely evaluate work zones, especially around aging underground structures. Incidents involving unsecured shafts or weakened metal components remain a significant safety challenge on worksites citywide.
Should New York City increase inspections on manholes and underground infrastructure to prevent accidents like this?
Share your thoughts in the comments — your voice matters!
