A Hudson River explosion on Saturday claimed the life of one worker and injured two others after a sewage transport vessel exploded while docked near a New York wastewater treatment plant, officials confirmed.
Details of the Incident
The explosion happened around 10:30 a.m. on the motorized city vessel Hunts Point, which is used to transport raw sewage. According to New York Fire Department Deputy Assistant Chief David Simms, the blast occurred between the pier and the vessel, killing one employee on site.
The U.S. Coast Guard stated the explosion was related to “hot work aboard a docked boat,” referring to welding or cutting activities known to carry ignition risks. The Coast Guard promptly responded to the Hudson River explosion and launched an investigation alongside the Bureau of Fire.
Victims and Response
The deceased worker, whose identity has not been publicly released, had worked for the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for 33 years. Another DEP employee was hospitalized, while a third declined medical treatment at the scene.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences, saying, “This devoted public servant gave 33 years of service to New York City, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this painful time.”
All FDNY personnel who responded to the Hudson River explosion were decontaminated as a precaution.
Ongoing Investigation
While the exact cause of the Hudson River explosion remains under investigation, Mayor Adams confirmed there is “no suspicion of criminality.” Authorities are focusing on the nature of the work being conducted on the vessel at the time of the incident.
