Donike Gocaj: Fatal Manhole Accident at West 52 Street and Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan, Reported October 23, 2026

Donike Gocaj, 56, died after falling into an uncovered manhole at West 52 Street and Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The fatal incident was reported on October 23, 2026; its calendar date was not established in the available information.

Gocaj, a resident of Briarcliff Manor in Westchester County, had parked her Mercedes-Benz SUV at the intersection. When she stepped out of the vehicle, she fell approximately 10 feet into the open manhole. She was taken to New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that her death was accidental. The autopsy findings included scald burns with inhalational thermal injury and blunt force trauma to the torso.

The manhole cover was found about 15 feet from the opening. No construction was underway at the location.

Con Edison, which operated the manhole, said it reviewed video footage and determined that a truck had dislodged the cover. The utility said heavy vehicles can displace manhole covers, while describing such occurrences as rare.

Con Edison said it was investigating the incident. The New York City mayor’s office also said city agencies were working with the utility on the inquiry. The company’s account of the video did not establish legal responsibility for Gocaj’s death.