New York City was struck by severe thunderstorms on Thursday, resulting in tragic fatalities linked to flooding in basement apartments. Two handymen, recognized as familiar faces in their respective buildings, lost their lives while attempting to navigate hazardous conditions.
Victims of NYC Storm Flooding
The first victim, identified as Aaron Akaberi, was 39 years old. He resided in a basement unit on Kingston Avenue in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Witnesses recalled him rushing back into his flooded apartment to rescue one of his two pit bulls. Sadly, he was unable to escape with both pets.
Meanwhile, in Washington Heights, Juan Carlos Montoya Hernandez, aged 43, succumbed to the flooding while attempting to restore power in a building’s boiler room. Friends and residents described both men as helpful and deeply ingrained in their communities.
Community Reactions
- Michael Caban, a friend of Akaberi, expressed confusion about how the tragic incidents unfolded.
- Maciel Abreu, a neighbor of Hernandez, referred to him as family, highlighting his dedication to helping others.
The sorrow in the neighborhoods was palpable. Residents honored Montoya Hernandez with a photo and marigold flowers, a symbol of mourning in Mexican culture.
Weather and Safety Concerns
On the day of the storm, the city recorded over three inches of rain in just two hours, with one inch falling within a mere ten-minute span. According to Kenneth Oates, the former owner of the building where Akaberi died, flooding was a recurring issue in the basement. He ceased renting the unit due to its unsafe conditions.
Both buildings have previously experienced flooding, raising questions about safety regulations. The New York City Department of Buildings is currently investigating these incidents. A recent initiative aims to create legal rental units in basements, but stipulations prohibit these developments in flood-prone areas.
Ongoing Investigations
As investigations continue, residents are calling for greater accountability regarding building safety in the wake of these tragedies.
- The Department of Buildings has not confirmed whether the basement apartments were legal.
- There are growing concerns regarding emergency responses during severe weather events.
The devastating storms have highlighted the vulnerabilities in New York City’s housing infrastructure. Community voices emphasize the need for significant changes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
