Sources: Briarcliff Manor woman dies after falling into uncovered manhole in Manhattan
The incident happened just before 11:30 p.m. on 5th Avenue, police said.
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Sources say a Briarcliff Manor woman died after falling into a manhole in Midtown Manhattan late Monday night.
The incident happened just before 11:30 p.m. on 5th Avenue, police said.
Sources have identified the victim as 56-year-old Donika Gocaj. Police say the woman stepped out of her car and walked into an uncovered manhole. They said she was unconscious and unresponsive when officers arrived.
Gocaj was taken to Cornell Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
A spokesperson with Con Edison said surveillance video appears to show the cover of the manhole was removed by a multi-axel truck that drove over it 12 minutes before the victim appeared.
“We are reviewing the details, and while this is a rare occurrence, manhole covers can get displaced by heavy vehicles. Our thoughts remain with her family, and safety remains our top priority," the spokesperson wrote.
People in the area say they are shocked by the incident.
"It's really sad to know that happened," said a community member. "I just pray for the family and everyone involved at this sad time."
The medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death.
No arrests have been made.
Police have not officially released the victim's name.
