Medical Examiner Rules NYC Manhole Fall an Accident

The New York City medical examiner ruled the death of Donike Gocaj an accident on Tuesday. m. on Monday. The examiner determined that Gocaj died from scald burns, including inhalational thermal injuries, and blunt force trauma to her torso. The Con Edison utility hole contained boiling water and steam at the time of the incident.

A witness reported that Gocaj screamed “I’m dying” as bystanders attempted to help before first responders arrived. Gocaj lived in Briarcliff Manor and was described as a devoted mother and grandmother. The medical examiner’s office confirmed the heat-related injuries through its official ruling. Officials said the death occurred after Gocaj parked her SUV along the street.

City agencies have not released further information on how the manhole cover came to be removed. No additional details on any investigation have been made public.