[Warning: Potentially Triggering Content]
What started as a normal night in Midtown Manhattan turned into an unimaginable tragedy for one New York family.
According to multiple reports from several outlets in the Big Apple, 56-year-old grandmother Donike Gocaj died Monday night after accidentally falling into an uncovered manhole near Fifth Avenue and East 52nd Street in NYC. And the horrifying details surrounding her death are leaving so many people shaken.
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Witnesses say Donike had just parked her SUV when she stepped out and suddenly disappeared into the open hole.
According to the New York Post and other news outlets in the city covering the story on Tuesday and Wednesday, at least one bystander recalled hearing terrifying screams coming from below street level as the grandmother repeatedly cried out:
“I’m dying, I’m dying.”
Absolutely heartbreaking.
People nearby reportedly rushed to help as quickly as they could. Some witnesses attempted to lower a ladder into the manhole while others desperately searched for a way to pull her out. But according to reports, the conditions underground were extremely dangerous. Witnesses described intense heat, thick steam, and what appeared to be boiling water inside the utility chamber.
Sadly, rescuers were unable to save her in time. What a terrible, terrible tragedy.
And now, officials have confirmed the devastating cause of death, as well. Also per the Post, the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office reportedly ruled Donike’s death an accident caused by a combination of blunt force trauma, severe scald burns, and thermal injuries from inhaling superheated steam.
Horrific…
Experts interviewed after the tragedy explained that steam burns can be even more catastrophic than traditional fire burns because the heat destroys tissue inside the lungs almost immediately. One former medical official reportedly said the inhalation injuries may have been the deadliest part of the incident, as the scorching steam likely prevented oxygen from reaching her bloodstream.
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BTW, as if this story could not get any worse, Con Edison reportedly believes a heavy truck may have knocked the manhole cover loose just minutes before the accident happened. Surveillance footage is now being reviewed as investigators work to determine exactly how the cover became displaced in such a heavily trafficked area of Manhattan.
Even more disturbing, additional reports claim concerned pedestrians had allegedly contacted 911 about hazardous manhole conditions in the area in the weeks leading up to the tragedy. And… nothing was done, it would apparently seem?! Ugh!!!
Donike leaves behind grieving loved ones who are now mourning a truly horrific and sudden loss. And what should have been an ordinary evening in New York City instead became a nightmare no family should ever have to endure.
Such a devastating story. Our hearts are with her family and everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy…
[Image created for PerezHilton.]
