On July 24, 2024, an escalator caught fire at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, leaving nine people injured. At approximately 7:15 a.m., according to the Port Authority of New York, an escalator in Concourse C of Terminal 8 started emitting smoke. When police officers responded to the scene, they quickly noticed that the source of the smoke was the escalator catching fire.
Roughly over 900 people in the surrounding area were forced to be evacuated and transported by bus to another area of the terminal. The Fire Department reported that nine people were examined for injuries, and four people were hospitalized after inhaling smoke and sustaining minor injuries.
While terminal operations resumed later that morning, several airline flights were delayed or canceled due to the evacuation. According to local officials, the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Injuries from accidents like the recent escalator fire at JFK Airport can have life-altering consequences. These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in public spaces. While some accidents are unavoidable, others result from the negligent actions of others. A lawyer can review the facts of your case and determine if you have a valid claim.
Your main priority after sustaining an injury in an accident should be focusing on recovery. If you or someone you know were injured on someone else’s property due to another party’s negligence, our team is here to support you and guide you through the process of seeking compensation. Contact an experienced premises liability lawyer today to understand your rights and explore legal options.
Goldstein and Bashner
