A construction worker has died after he accidentally fell through the ceiling of a church on the Upper West Side. An investigation will determine whether the unidentified man, who was standing on a ladder prior to the fall, was electrocuted. The man fell approximately 125 feet and landed in the main aisle of the Church of St. Paul the Apostle at around 9:30 a.m., according to the New York Post. The Manhattan church was being used as a rehearsal area for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, according to officials, and several Rockettes were in the basement practicing at the time of the construction accident fall.
The pastor of the parish stated that the man, who was setting up safety rigging at the time of the accident, was at the church for at least two years working on a restoration project for a construction company that was hired to perform the repairs. He expressed his sympathies for the family and will perform the last rites for the man.
The construction industry presents a number of inherent dangers for its employees, and those working at extreme heights on ladders, scaffolds or other equipment are particularly at risk for serious injuries. Legal recourse may be available, however, to employees who were injured as the result of a negligent contractor, building owner or other party. If you or a loved one was injured in a ladder fall, electrocution or other type of construction accident, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages. To find out if you are eligible, contact our New York construction accident attorneys today for no cost, no obligation case review.