MIDTOWN, NY (October 20, 2025) — Ten people were hurt, including one critically, in a multi-vehicle incident that sent a parked van onto a crowded sidewalk in Midtown Manhattan on Monday afternoon.
Accident Details: Around 4:00 p.m., a northbound Ryder box truck on Eighth Avenue struck a recently parked work van just before 30th Street. The collision forced the van forward nearly 30 feet onto the sidewalk, where it hit a group of pedestrians and damaged a LinkNYC station.
Surveillance footage showed the van had only moments earlier parked when the truck suddenly veered and crashed into its rear left side. One woman was reportedly pinned between the van and the building. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene with people diving out of the way and others crawling from under the wreckage.
“A man’s shoe was left on the other side of the sidewalk — that’s how hard he was hit,” said witness Arnitra Elise, who was nearly struck herself. “People were screaming, running, trying to help.”
Eight pedestrians were injured, one critically. Two occupants of the truck were also taken to a hospital for evaluation. Firefighters and EMS responded swiftly to treat the wounded.
Investigation: The box truck came to a stop just beyond the intersection, and the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police. Authorities have not found signs of impairment or mechanical failure, though the truck’s maneuver just prior to impact is under review. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts are being used to determine how the truck lost control.
Investigators are examining factors including the truck’s speed, positioning in the lane, and possible distraction. At this time, no charges have been filed and no arrests made.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving commercial vehicles in pedestrian-dense areas require a careful review of driver behavior, safety protocols, and whether company policy was followed.
In this case, individuals who suffered injuries may be entitled to file civil claims for hospital care, rehabilitation, lost wages, or other damages related to the crash. Depending on the findings, liability may extend to the truck driver, the operating company, or both.
Our thoughts are with the individuals injured in this devastating Midtown crash as they begin their recovery.
Source: ABC 7 New York