Solar Panel Blew off Roof and Struck Victim During NYC Nor’Easter
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK (October 26, 2025) – A 76-year-old woman has tragically died in a Brooklyn accident after being hit by a falling solar panel on Ocean Parkway.
New York City officials are saying that the accident took place during nor’easter. The woman was walking when she was hit by a panel that flew around 20 feet after coming loose from a building.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help the victim. She was knocked to the ground and unresponsive when paramedics came.
A full investigation into the accident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for Brooklyn Accidents
Many people are seriously injured or killed every year in accidents involving falling debris. Many of the victims work in construction. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Occupational struck-by incidents caused 150 deaths and 14,000 nonfatal construction sector injuries in 2020. This totaled $1.4 billion in workers compensation direct costs for non-fatal claims with more than 5 days away from work.” There are many reasons that debris may come loose.
- It may not have been properly secured.
- Wind may have caused it to become unstable over time.
- Debris may have been left out in areas where it could be knocked over.
Property owners have a legal obligation to take steps to avoid harming residents and guests. This duty of care extends to anyone that could be reasonably impacted by their property. They must use caution to properly secure all items to their building. If a solar panel comes loose and strikes a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that certain steps are taken after any accident with a falling object.
- The police should be called to the scene.
- Medical records related to the accident should be preserved.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
Depending on the facts of any case, there could be several liable parties for any accident. This includes the company that installed a solar panel or fixed objects that fell from a roof and injured someone. These contractors have a legal obligation to properly secure these devices. The family of any person who died in an accident with falling debris may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating Brooklyn Car Accidents
We at GLK Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman who died in this accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. This was a preventable tragedy that should have never taken place.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Brooklyn accident? You may have legal recourse. Our team of accident investigators 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 support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
