NY Woman Donike Gocaj ID’d As Victim In Manhattan Fatal Manhole Fall

MANHATTAN, NY. (THECOUNT) — Donike Gocaj, 56, of Briarcliff Manor, New York, died Monday night after falling into an uncovered manhole outside the Cartier store along Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, according to authorities and reports.

The fatal incident occurred around 11:20 p.m. Monday near the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 52nd Street, one of Manhattan’s busiest shopping corridors.

According to reports, Gocaj had just exited her parked Mercedes-Benz SUV when she fell approximately 10 feet into the open manhole.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene and removed Gocaj from the hole before transporting her to NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center for treatment.

Authorities confirmed Gocaj later died from her injuries.

Officials have not yet publicly released the official cause and manner of death pending findings from the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office.

Investigators continued examining the scene Tuesday morning as emergency materials and burn sheets remained visible near the area of the incident.

The deadly fall prompted questions from nearby workers and witnesses regarding why the manhole was left uncovered in a heavily trafficked section of Midtown Manhattan.

A nearby construction worker told the New York Post the opening should have either been covered or clearly marked.

The worker also speculated electrical equipment located inside the manhole could potentially have contributed to the fatal injuries, though officials have not confirmed that information.

Authorities have not publicly stated whether electrical hazards played any role in the incident.

:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} confirmed it has launched an investigation into the incident.

A spokesperson for the utility company said officials are attempting to determine how the manhole came to be left open.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a member of the public has died after falling into an open manhole,” the company said in a statement.

Con Edison also stated that safety remains a top priority while the investigation continues.

The area surrounding Fifth Avenue and 52nd Street includes numerous luxury retailers, tourist destinations, office towers, and pedestrian traffic throughout the day and night.

Authorities have not announced whether any citations, disciplinary actions, or criminal investigations are anticipated in connection with the incident.

The investigation remains active.

No additional information has been released at this time.

Google Maps: Fifth Avenue and West 52nd Street, Manhattan, New York

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