Tragic Boat Explosion on Hudson River Claims Life of NYC DEP Worker
NEW YORK, NY — A devastating explosion aboard a vessel docked on the Hudson River left one longtime New York City employee dead and another injured on Saturday morning, shaking the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the community it serves.
The explosion occurred around 10 a.m. at the North River Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility in West Harlem, located near 135th Street along the Hudson River. According to city officials and reports from CBS News New York, three DEP employees were on board the vessel at the time, conducting routine work when the sudden blast took place.
Emergency personnel responded swiftly to the scene, where one of the workers was tragically pronounced dead. The deceased has been identified as a veteran employee who had dedicated 33 years to the Bureau of Wastewater Treatment. His identity has not yet been publicly released pending notification of family.
A second worker sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The extent of the injuries remains unknown at this time. A third DEP employee who was also on board during the explosion declined medical attention at the scene.
In the wake of the incident, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection expressed deep sorrow over the loss. DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala issued a heartfelt statement:
“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. 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.”
Mayor Eric Adams also addressed the tragedy, offering condolences and emphasizing the importance of worker safety:
“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.”
Though the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation, early reports suggest there are no signs of foul play or environmental hazards resulting from the blast. City officials noted that operations at the North River facility were not impacted, and there is no immediate danger to the public or the surrounding area.
The North River Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility, one of New York City’s largest treatment plants, plays a critical role in the management of wastewater and environmental protection for millions of residents. It has long been a symbol of the city’s commitment to sustainability and public health.
In the aftermath of the incident, city agencies, including the DEP, NYPD, FDNY, and OSHA, are collaborating to conduct a thorough investigation. Their goal is to determine what caused the explosion and to ensure that workplace safety protocols are rigorously reviewed and strengthened to prevent future tragedies.
As the DEP community mourns the loss of a colleague and friend, tributes are pouring in from coworkers and city leaders, many of whom recall the fallen worker’s decades of service, knowledge, and quiet dedication. Plans for a memorial are expected in the coming days.
The explosion serves as a sobering reminder of the risks public employees take in maintaining the infrastructure that keeps New York City running. Their essential work, often unseen by the public, is vital to the health, safety, and quality of life of all New Yorkers.
Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
