A tragic incident unfolded in Brooklyn, New York, when a 76-year-old woman lost her life due to a falling solar panel. The event took place amid the severe weather conditions brought on by a powerful nor’easter affecting the East Coast.
Details of the Incident
On Sunday morning, around 10:30 a.m. ET, the elderly woman was found unresponsive on a walkway in the Coney Island area. Initial police reports indicated that she was struck in the head by the solar panel, which had become dislodged due to strong winds.
Emergency responders transported her to Lutheran Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. This incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of solar panel installations during extreme weather conditions.
Investigation Findings
The New York City Buildings Department dispatched inspectors to the site on Sunday afternoon following reports of a solar panel installation collapse in an outdoor parking lot. Inspectors discovered that a solar panel measuring 41” x 87” had come loose from its steel carport structure.
Authorities indicated that the panel was blown approximately 20 feet by the wind before tragically hitting the woman. The incident occurred near one of the entrances to the Ocean Parkway subway station, which serves the Q train.
Weather Conditions and Safety Precautions
- The nor’easter caused strong winds and coastal flooding warnings across the Northeast.
- The National Weather Service issued advisories in anticipation of hazardous weather.
- The Buildings Department collaborated with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to close the subway entrance to ensure public safety.
This event highlights the importance of maintaining and securing outdoor structures, particularly during severe weather conditions. The community is left in shock as they reflect on the tragic loss.
