A boom truck delivering construction materials overturned in Brooklyn’s Flatbush neighborhood on Tuesday morning, injuring two people and damaging nearby property.

The accident took place around 11 a.m. on Glenwood Road near Nostrand Avenue, causing chaos in the busy area.

What Happened?

The boom truck, operated by New Castle Building Products, was unloading materials when it suddenly tipped over. Witnesses said the truck’s extended boom struck a parked dollar van before crashing into the parapet wall and roof of a local grocery store, Express Deli Grocery.

Two men sitting inside the parked van suffered injuries due to the impact. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported them to Kings County Hospital. Fortunately, their injuries were not life-threatening.

The accident caused major disruptions in the area, with emergency teams working to secure the damaged structures and remove debris. Residents and business owners expressed shock at the incident, with many raising concerns about safety measures for construction operations in their neighborhood.

Investigation and Violations

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary findings revealed serious safety violations, leading to three citations issued against New Castle Building Products. These violations included:

Unsafe hoisting operations – indicating improper lifting techniques

Employing an unlicensed operator – raising concerns about qualifications and training

Failure to use certified riggers – violating safety regulations for heavy machinery

Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the accident. While weather conditions did not appear to play a role, officials suspect that improper handling of the crane may have contributed to the collapse.

Community Reactions and Business Impact

Flatbush residents and local business owners expressed concern about the risks associated with large construction vehicles operating in busy neighborhoods. Many called for stricter safety regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Margaret Bane, an employee at a nearby clothing store, recalled the frightening moment when the truck fell over. “I heard a loud bang, and when I looked outside, I saw the truck had collapsed on the van. It’s scary to think this could happen so close to home,” she said.

Express Deli Grocery, which suffered structural damage, was forced to close temporarily. Other businesses in the area also faced disruptions as officials worked to assess the safety of surrounding buildings.

Emergency Response and Safety Measures

Firefighters and emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, securing the area and preventing further damage. The NYPD and DOB ordered safety inspections of nearby structures to ensure there was no additional risk to public safety.

As part of the recovery efforts, emergency workers removed fuel from the damaged vehicles to prevent possible fires. The site remains under observation while further assessments are conducted.

What Happens Next?

Authorities are now reviewing the operational procedures of New Castle Building Products to determine whether further action is needed. The company’s compliance with safety laws and its hiring practices are being closely examined.

This accident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper safety measures when handling heavy equipment in urban environments. As investigations continue, city officials and community leaders will likely push for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent future incidents.