Sources have confirmed that one-person lie dead following a collision between the van that he was a passenger in and a fire truck. It has been reported that the fire truck was responding to a call when it struck a van that was making a left turn in front of the fire truck. Although the van had a green light when its driver initiated the turn, the fire truck struck the van on its left rear, thereby demolishing part of the van and killing one of the eight passengers. Six of the passengers and six firefighters were hospitalized with minor injuries, and two more whose conditions were listed as critical.
The 51-year old deceased man was identified to a Lawyer as a long-time resident of a state group home that is located in Willowbrook. The van was transporting individuals from the home to a day program that is offered by the Lifestyles for the Disabled. He was described as one who was always smiling and as being happy-go-lucky. He was also a competitor in Staten Island’s Special Olympics for the past several years.
The fire truck was responding to a reported fire, which turned out to be an overheated vehicle, and at the time of the accident had its lights and sirens activated. Immediately after the accident, the firefighters’ mission changed to that of rescuers and exited their vehicle to render aid to the accident victims. Firefighters had to use a hydraulic tool in order to extricate the victims from the van.
Sources close to the investigation in Queens and Westchester have told a reporter that the fire truck did not follow standard procedures in coming to a complete stop before entering an intersection of which the fire truck is facing a red light, essentially running the red traffic light. Other witnesses have stated that due to the street conditions the van had to make either a left or a right turn in order to clear a path for the fire truck. The investigation into the accident is ongoing and fire department officials could not be reached for further comments.
When involved in an accident, you may need someone to speak on your behalf that has the best interest of you and your loved ones in mind. A New York Truck Accident Attorney is just that person, as they have the training and experience to speak for you in your time of need.