Gocaj Family Sues Con Edison Over 10-Foot Manhattan Manhole Death
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 17
Gocaj Family Sues Con Edison Over 10-Foot Manhattan Manhole Death
3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jul 17
Summary
A lawsuit filed Thursday says Con Edison failed to secure a 10-foot-deep manhole in Midtown Manhattan, leading to the May 18 death of 56-year-old Donike “Donna” Gocaj.
The complaint alleges the opening was left uncovered, unguarded and without warnings near East 52nd Street and Fifth Avenue as Gocaj stepped from her parked car on her way to work.
Con Edison said surveillance video suggests a large multiaxle truck dislodged the cover about 12 minutes before Gocaj parked, adding that such incidents are rare.
The medical examiner said Gocaj died from burns, scalding steam inhalation and blunt-force chest injuries; the suit says she suffered extensive conscious pain while trapped.
The estate seeks damages without specifying an amount, while Con Edison said it would review the complaint and respond through the legal process.