Brooklyn police responded to a 911 call at 4:34 a.m. on Friday reporting three individuals emerging from a sewer manhole on Bay Ridge Parkway near 17th Avenue in the Bensonhurst neighborhood. The caller noted the men were wearing brightly colored clothing as they climbed out of the underground opening.
Officers arrived shortly after the call and found the manhole already sealed. No arrests were made at the scene, and investigators are working to determine how the men accessed the sewer system and why they were there.
Police response and safety measures
The NYPD confirmed that the manhole was closed by the time officers reached the location, preventing further entry. While the incident did not result in injuries, officials emphasized the importance of keeping manholes secured to protect public safety, especially in residential areas where children and pets may be present.
In a related development, police also reported two arrests connected to a separate incident on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, where individuals slipped into a sewer. Those arrests underscore the department’s ongoing efforts to address unsafe conditions in the city’s underground infrastructure.
Community impact
Residents of Bensonhurst expressed concern over the unusual sight, with some questioning the security of local utilities. City officials have urged anyone who notices unsecured manholes or other hazards to report them promptly to 311 or the NYPD.
Mayor Eric Adams’ office has reiterated its commitment to maintaining safe streets and infrastructure throughout New York City. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is scheduled to conduct routine inspections of sewer covers in the borough to ensure they meet safety standards.
What to do if you encounter an open manhole
- Do not attempt to enter or climb down the opening.
- Keep children and pets away from the area.
- Report the hazard immediately by calling 311 or dialing 911 for emergencies.
- Provide the exact location, any visible markings, and a description of the situation.
Authorities encourage the public to remain vigilant and to cooperate with city agencies in keeping Brooklyn’s streets safe for all residents.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
