One Person Killed in Brooklyn Trench Collapse

OSHA Investigating Fatal Bushwick, Brooklyn Trench Collapse on Jefferson Street

BUSHWICK, BROOKLYN (March 28, 2026) – One worker has died and another was seriously injured in a Bushwick, Brooklyn trench collapse along Jefferson Street.

New York City officials are saying the accident took place around 8:30 AM on Thursday. A 47-year-old worker and a 40-year-old worker were in a trench when it suddenly collapsed.

Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help the victims. One worker died, and the other 40-year-old worker was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

It remains unclear what may have led up to the collapse. A full investigation remains ongoing.

Liability for Bushwick Trench Collapse Accidents

Digging trenches can be extremely dangerous, especially when safety protocols are not being followed. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Injuries and deaths related to trench collapses continue to happen. From the years 2003 to 2017, there were a total of 373 trenching deaths. More than 80% of those deaths happened in the construction industry. Workers do not often survive trench collapses, but we can prevent them.” There are a number of factors that could contribute to a trench collapse.

• Heavy equipment may be placed on the outer edges of a trench.
• Engineers may have misclassified the soil where a trench was being dug.
• A trench may not have the proper shoring and bracing required to prevent a collapse.

Depending on the specific facts of any case, a general contractor could face liability for any trench collapse. In particular, general contractors could be held liable through New York Labor Law 241(6) if they failed to incorporate adequate cave-in protection to the sides of a trench prior to a collapse. The family of any person who died may be able to pursue some measure of accountability and justice through a civil action.

Investigating Bushwick Trench Collapses

We at GLK Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of the worker who died in this trench collapse. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this. Any person who may have more information should reach out to OSHA.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a Bushwick trench collapse? You may have legal recourse. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of assistance, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.