Emergency services in Queens rushed to the scene of a devastating multi-vehicle collision late Thursday night, November 21, 2024, on the Kosciuszko Bridge. The accident, declared a multi-casualty incident (MCI), resulted in injuries to six individuals, two of whom are in critical condition and suffered traumatic cardiac arrest.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred during peak evening hours, snarling traffic across the Kosciuszko Bridge and surrounding roadways. Initial reports under Fire Department Box 8380 indicated multiple vehicles were involved in a high-speed collision that caused significant structural damage to the vehicles and created hazardous conditions on the bridge. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Upon arrival, first responders from the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), emergency medical services (EMS), and the New York Police Department (NYPD) encountered a chaotic scene. Wreckage from several vehicles was scattered across multiple lanes, with some debris spilling into adjacent traffic areas.
Emergency Response
Emergency medical teams immediately implemented triage protocols, prioritizing victims based on the severity of their injuries. Of the six individuals injured, two were found in traumatic cardiac arrest at the scene, requiring advanced life-saving measures, including CPR, intubation, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
The other four victims sustained injuries ranging from moderate to severe, including fractures, contusions, and possible internal trauma. Stabilization and transport were carried out efficiently, with all six patients being transported to nearby trauma centers, including Elmhurst Hospital and Bellevue Hospital, both of which are equipped to handle critical cases.
Casualty Updates
The two critically injured victims are reported to remain in intensive care, with their prognoses uncertain at this time. Hospital staff are working tirelessly to stabilize their conditions. The other four individuals, while less severely injured, are being monitored for potential complications.
Investigation into the Crash
NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad is currently reviewing the circumstances leading to the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that speed and poor visibility may have been contributing factors, though this has yet to be confirmed. Witnesses reported that one vehicle appeared to have lost control, triggering a chain reaction that involved several other cars.
Authorities are also investigating the possibility of mechanical failure or driver impairment. Traffic camera footage and witness statements will play a crucial role in reconstructing the sequence of events.
Traffic Disruptions
The accident caused major traffic disruptions in the area. The Kosciuszko Bridge was partially shut down for several hours as emergency crews worked to extricate victims, clear debris, and assess the structural safety of the roadway. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, including the Williamsburg Bridge and Queens Midtown Tunnel.
Community Impact
The Kosciuszko Bridge, a vital connector between Brooklyn and Queens, is a heavily traveled thoroughfare. Thursday night’s incident disrupted the evening commute for thousands of drivers, underscoring the importance of safe driving practices on high-traffic urban bridges.
Safety Reminders for Drivers
Officials are using this incident to remind the public about the importance of safe driving, especially on bridges and other high-speed roadways. Drivers are urged to maintain safe speeds, avoid distractions, and ensure their vehicles are in good working condition to minimize the risk of accidents.
Ongoing Updates
As the investigation progresses, further updates will be provided on the conditions of the injured victims, the cause of the crash, and efforts to improve traffic safety on the Kosciuszko Bridge. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and local news outlets.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers on the road and the critical importance of caution and vigilance behind the wheel. Emergency personnel and healthcare providers continue to work diligently to save lives and ensure the safety of all affected by this devastating incident.
