By Myrek Zastavnyi
Kiryas Joel, NY — July 22, 2025 — In a dramatic accident that shattered the quiet Village of Kiryas Joel this Tuesday, a large construction crane collapsed during the lifting of concrete blocks, crushing a 15-passenger van parked below. Miraculously, only two people were reported with minor injuries, according to village officials.
The incident took place at the busy intersection of Acres Road and Bakertown Road just before midday. The crane, part of a new-home construction site, toppled suddenly, demolishing the van as emergency services were called to respond.
The collapse prompted a swift and coordinated emergency response from Kiryas Joel Fire Department, Kiryas Joel Hatzolah, KJ Public Safety and New York State Police.
Officials cleared the scene quickly and confirmed only two individuals sustained minor injuries—remarkably lucky, given the extent of the damage. “Miraculously, no injuries were reported,” one first responder commented.
At this time, the cause of the collapse remains under investigation. Authorities have not provided details but noted that a full assessment of the crane’s operation and maintenance history is underway.
While no injuries resulted this time, crane accidents are unfortunately not rare in New York State. A previous incident in Brooklyn saw a crane collapse onto a residential building, prompting violations and ongoing safety reviews.
Nationally, there is growing scrutiny of crane safety records. Many operators involved in past collapses have faced federal or state citations over mechanical or oversight deficiencies. The Village of Kiryas Joel incident may lead to calls for tighter local regulations.
Neighbors expressed shock at the noise and suddenness of the collapse. “It sounded like a bomb went off,” said one resident interviewed near the site. Fortunately, no bystanders were hit, and ongoing questioning seeks to determine if anyone narrowly escaped worse harm.
Investigators from state construction and crane safety agencies will determine whether improper rigging, equipment failure, or operator error caused the collapse. Any findings could result in safety orders, fines, or changes to local construction monitoring processes.
