A worker was killed Saturday morning when an explosion on a sewage barge at Manhattan’s North River Wastewater Treatment Plant tossed him into the Hudson River.

According to the Daily Mail, the blast, believed to be triggered by ignited methane during welding activity, claimed the life of a veteran city worker and injured two others as Fleet Week events unfolded nearby in New York City.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. on May 24 at the treatment facility near West 138th Street. The explosion shattered the calm of the morning as workers operated on a barge owned by the city’s Department of Environmental Protection. The vessel was transporting raw sewage when the blast erupted. Officials believe the explosion was sparked by a malfunction during welding work being done on the hull of the barge. Methane gas, which is common in sewage operations, likely ignited in the process. Despite the intensity of the blast, no secondary fire broke out as a result.

Worker Thrown into Water After Blast

The primary victim, a 59-year-old man with decades of city service, had been performing welding repairs on the barge at the time of the accident. The force of the explosion hurled him into the Hudson River. Emergency responders later found him pinned between the barge and the dock.

While rescue teams were able to pull him from the water, he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards. Authorities have not yet determined whether the trauma from the explosion or impacts sustained in the fall caused his death. Two other individuals working at the site were transported to nearby hospitals. One sustained injuries considered life-threatening, while the other remained in stable condition. Their names have not been made public.

Emergency Crews Quickly Mobilized

Response boats were immediately dispatched to the scene once the explosion was reported. Helicopters were seen overhead as emergency teams navigated a narrow gangway to access the barge. Their efforts focused on rescuing victims and stabilizing the area.

Hazardous materials crews also rushed to the scene to contain potential environmental risks. Teams assessed methane concentrations and decontaminated the vessel, as sludge and oil had seeped into the river during and after the blast. The Department of Environmental Protection confirmed the barge was carrying untreated sewage to the city facility when the incident occurred. Despite the explosion and resulting contamination, there was no disruption to the treatment plant’s regular operations.

Mayor, Commissioner Express Condolences

The death of the long-serving worker prompted responses from both city and department officials. Mayor Eric Adams issued a public statement of sympathy, describing the deceased as a dedicated public employee who had given 33 years of service to New York City. “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,” Adams said. Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala of the NYC DEP echoed the mayor’s sentiments, noting the man’s long-standing role within the Bureau of Wastewater Treatment and emphasizing his dedication to public health and safety.

Investigation Underway with Focus on Safety

Officials confirmed that, while the cause of the explosion is likely related to the welding activity, a full investigation is ongoing. As of Saturday evening, there were no signs of criminal intent or foul play related to the incident.

“We are committed to fully supporting an investigation and ensuring that every possible measure is taken to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Mayor Adams said in an official statement. Commissioner Aggarwala further added, “The entire DEP family is grieving today. Our employee who lost his life had served the Department and the City with dedication for 33 years.”

Fleet Week Shadowed by Tragedy

The timing of the explosion coincided with the city’s annual fleet week, when thousands gather along New York’s waterways to celebrate maritime heritage and honor military service members. The tragic accident added a somber note to the otherwise celebratory weekend.

Although helicopters were initially thought by bystanders to be part of a fleet week demonstration, they were in fact responding to the emergency unfolding at the wastewater facility. Their presence underscored the seriousness of the situation as it drew attention away from the festivities. City officials have assured residents and event attendees that there is no danger posed by the incident to surrounding neighborhoods or the ongoing fleet week events.

A Life of Service Recognized in Wake of Loss

The deceased worker’s identity has not been made public as of Sunday morning, pending notification of next of kin. What’s known is that he held a long and respected career within the DEP, offering decades of experience and commitment to maintaining the city’s critical wastewater infrastructure. “He was a valued and experienced member of the Bureau of Wastewater Treatment, and his decades of service reflect his commitment to DEP’s mission,” said Commissioner Aggarwala.

While the city and department grieve, efforts continue to support the affected workers and ensure safety improvements are implemented. The DEP and relevant agencies have pledged transparency and accountability as the investigation continues into the fatal blast.