A WORKER was killed and two others injured when a sewage barge exploded on the Hudson River during New York City’s Fleet Week.
The blast erupted around 10.30am Saturday on a Department of Environmental Protection vessel docked near West 138th Street in Manhattan, officials said.
The barge — which was transporting raw sewage to the North River Wastewater Treatment Plant, suddenly blew up, sending a 59-year-old man flying into the river.
“Officials arrived at the scene to find a large explosion had ripped through the ship’s hull,” NYPD said.
The worker, who was welding the hull at the time of the explosion, became trapped between the vessel and the dock and later died of his injuries.
It is not yet clear whether the fatal wounds were caused by the blast itself or the impact after he was thrown into the water.
Two other DEP workers on board were rushed to nearby hospitals.
Their conditions were not immediately known.
Investigators suspect the explosion may have been triggered by a welding malfunction, with highly flammable methane — produced by the raw sewage — potentially igniting during the operation.
Hazmat crews were seen at the scene working to decontaminate the vessel, assess methane levels, and tackle sludge and oil that leaked into the water.
FDNY officials said it was too early to determine whether the explosion was accidental.
Emergency services, including helicopters and rescue boats, swarmed the scene, with responders spotted carefully navigating a narrow gangway to access the blast site.
The investigation into the deadly incident is ongoing.
The plant’s operations were not affected by the explosion.
DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala said in a statement that the worker who died had dedicated over 30 years of service to the city.
He said: “The entire DEP family is grieving today.
“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.”
In a statement, Mayor Eric Adams added: “I am devastated to hear about the tragic death of a dedicated Department of Environmental Protection employee who lost his life today while working on a boat at one of our city’s wastewater resource recovery facilities.
“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.
“At this time, there is no suspicion of criminality and no impact on the facility.
“The safety and well-being of our city’s workforce, and all New Yorkers, is always our top priority, and we are committed to fully supporting an investigation and ensuring that every possible measure is taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.”
What is NYC’s Fleet Week?
NEW York City’s Fleet Week is an annual event that celebrates the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
It typically takes place over Memorial Day weekend and features the arrival of active military ships into New York Harbor.
During Fleet Week, sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are welcomed into the city and take part in a range of activities including:
- Ship tours for the public
- Military demonstrations
- Parades and flyovers
- Community outreach and school visits
- Special events honoring service members
It’s both a celebration of the armed forces and an opportunity for the public to interact with military personnel and learn more about maritime operations.
The event draws thousands of visitors each year and is considered a patriotic staple of NYC’s cultural calendar.
