A tragic incident unfolded in Midtown Manhattan late Monday night when a woman lost her life after falling into an uncovered manhole, as reported by police to Fox News Digital.
The victim, a 56-year-old woman, was discovered unconscious and unresponsive at the bottom of an open manhole located at 653 Fifth Ave., close to East 52nd Street, around 11:19 p.m., according to information from the NYPD provided to Fox News Digital on Tuesday.
Upon receiving a 911 call about a person needing assistance, police arrived on the scene within the Midtown North Precinct. The incident took place in one of Manhattan’s most bustling areas, known for its upscale shopping and tourism, featuring luxury shops, office buildings, and hotels.
The woman was transported by emergency medical services to New York – Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where she was later declared deceased. The cause of death will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
This section of Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, where the tragic accident occurred, is depicted in the image. (Getty Images)
The woman’s name has not been released as authorities are ensuring her family is properly notified first.
Authorities have not said why the manhole was uncovered or whether any work was being done in the area at the time of the incident.
New York City-based energy company, Con Edison, said it is also investigating the woman’s death.
It is currently not known why the manhole was uncovered. (Getty Images)
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a member of the public has died after falling into an open manhole,” a company spokesperson told ABC 7. “We are actively investigating how this occurred.”
“Our thoughts are with the individual’s family, and safety remains our top priority,” the statement added.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing, according to the NYPD.
CBS News reported that the woman’s family arrived at the scene Tuesday morning seeking answers about how the incident happened. The outlet reported family members were seen embracing and consoling one another.
The woman was found unconscious and unresponsive inside an uncovered manhole in front of 653 Fifth Ave., near East 52nd Street. (Getty Images)
The woman’s daughter-in-law was “visibly shaking” as she spoke with CBS News and claimed there were no warning signs or covers over the manhole as the family continued trying to process the incident.
The area around the manhole remained partially cordoned off Tuesday morning as investigators continued examining the scene.
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