Mass Casualty Incident on Kosciuszko Bridge in Queens: Six Injured in Multi-Vehicle Crash, Two in Traumatic Cardiac Arrest as Emergency Crews Respond to Major Traffic Collision
Mass Casualty Incident on Kosciuszko Bridge in Queens: Six Injured in Multi-Vehicle Crash, Two in Traumatic Cardiac Arrest as Emergency Crews Respond to Major Traffic Collision
Queens, NY — November 21, 2024
A late Thursday evening turned catastrophic on the Kosciuszko Bridge when a multi-vehicle collision escalated into a mass casualty incident (MCI), leaving six people injured, including two in critical condition suffering from traumatic cardiac arrest. The crash, which caused significant damage to vehicles and led to extensive traffic disruptions, prompted a rapid and coordinated response from emergency services in Queens.
Timeline of the Incident
The collision occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m. on the eastbound span of the Kosciuszko Bridge, a vital artery connecting Brooklyn and Queens over Newtown Creek. Initial reports indicated a chain-reaction crash involving at least four vehicles. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with debris strewn across multiple lanes and several occupants trapped inside their vehicles.
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) received a dispatch under Box 8380, sending fire, rescue, and emergency medical units to the location. Within minutes, first responders arrived to find a complex and dynamic scene: mangled vehicles, injured occupants, and traffic at a complete standstill.
Emergency Response and Triage
Recognizing the severity of the incident, FDNY personnel immediately declared an MCI and began triage operations to prioritize care for the injured. The two most critical patients were found in traumatic cardiac arrest, requiring advanced life-saving measures (ALS) on the scene, including CPR, intubation, and administration of intravenous fluids and medications.
EMS Lieutenant Maria Fernandez described the challenges of treating multiple critically injured patients on a busy bridge:
“Our priority was to stabilize the most severely injured while coordinating resources to manage the additional patients. Working in such a confined and hazardous environment required precision and teamwork.”
Four additional individuals sustained a range of injuries, from fractures to head trauma. EMTs and paramedics quickly assessed their conditions, stabilized them, and prepared them for transport. The six victims were distributed among nearby trauma centers, including Elmhurst Hospital and Bellevue Hospital, based on the severity of their injuries.
Victim Conditions
As of the latest updates, the two critically injured patients remain in intensive care, fighting for their lives. Hospital sources indicate that both suffered multiple traumatic injuries, including chest and abdominal trauma. The remaining four victims are reported to be in stable condition, receiving treatment for injuries such as broken bones, lacerations, and concussions.
FDNY Chief of Operations John Sheridan commended the swift actions of the responding crews:
“In incidents like this, every second counts. Thanks to the rapid response and expertise of our teams, we were able to provide immediate care and improve the chances of survival for those critically injured.”
Impact on Traffic and Commuters
The Kosciuszko Bridge, already known for its heavy traffic during peak hours, became a chokepoint as eastbound lanes were completely shut down to facilitate rescue operations and an investigation by the NYPD Highway Collision Investigation Squad. Westbound traffic was also slowed due to rubbernecking and emergency vehicle access.
Motorists stuck on the bridge described the scene as harrowing. Commuter James Roth shared his experience:
“I was about five cars back from the crash. The sound of the impact was deafening, and then you could see the smoke and debris. It was clear right away that it was bad.”
Traffic in the surrounding areas, including the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), quickly became gridlocked as drivers sought alternate routes. The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) deployed traffic management teams to assist with rerouting vehicles, but congestion persisted late into the night.
Investigation into the Cause
The NYPD Highway Collision Investigation Squad has launched a full inquiry into the circumstances leading to the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that excessive speed and driver inattention may have been contributing factors. Witnesses reported seeing one vehicle swerving erratically moments before the collision, potentially triggering the chain reaction.
Investigators are examining multiple factors, including:
- Road conditions: Whether wet or slick surfaces played a role in the crash
- Mechanical failure: Possible issues with any of the vehicles involved
- Driver impairment: Whether alcohol, drugs, or medical conditions were involved
Dashcam footage from nearby vehicles and surveillance cameras on the bridge are being reviewed to piece together a clear timeline of events. The drivers of all vehicles involved are cooperating with authorities.
Community Concerns and Safety Implications
The incident has reignited concerns about traffic safety on the Kosciuszko Bridge, a high-traffic corridor that has seen several accidents since its reconstruction in 2017. Despite modern design improvements, including wider lanes and improved lighting, the bridge remains a hotspot for crashes due to its heavy usage and proximity to major traffic arteries.
Transportation safety advocate Leah Cohen commented:
“This tragedy underscores the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better education about safe driving practices on heavily trafficked infrastructure like the Kosciuszko Bridge. Speeding and distracted driving continue to put lives at risk.”
Recovery and Cleanup Efforts
Following the removal of the injured victims, tow trucks and cleanup crews began the arduous process of clearing the wreckage. Damaged vehicles were towed from the scene, and NYC DOT teams worked to remove debris and assess any structural damage to the bridge. By 3:00 a.m., eastbound lanes were partially reopened, but residual delays continued into the morning commute.
Support for Victims and First Responders
Local organizations and community leaders are rallying to support the victims and their families. The FDNY Foundation has offered counseling services for the first responders involved, acknowledging the emotional toll of managing such high-stakes incidents.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. issued a statement praising the efforts of emergency crews and calling for renewed focus on traffic safety:
“Our thoughts are with the victims of this tragic accident and their families. I want to thank our first responders for their heroic actions under incredibly challenging circumstances. This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers on our roads and the need for vigilance behind the wheel.”
Lessons Learned
The Kosciuszko Bridge crash serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and coordination in managing mass casualty incidents. FDNY officials highlighted the value of continuous training for such events, which allowed responders to act decisively and effectively.
EMS Lieutenant Fernandez reflected on the incident:
“Every MCI teaches us something new. From communication to resource allocation, these situations push us to adapt and improve so that we’re even more prepared for the next call.”
Conclusion
As the investigation into the Kosciuszko Bridge crash unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the recovery of the injured and addressing the underlying causes of the collision. For now, Queens stands united in its support for the victims and gratitude for the first responders who acted with urgency and precision to save lives.
Further updates will be provided as the conditions of the injured stabilize and more information becomes available about the cause of the crash. Motorists are reminded to exercise caution and patience as authorities work to restore safety and normalcy to one of New York City’s busiest thoroughfares.
