NYC Probes Six Deaths Potentially Tied to Extreme Cold Weather

New York City is investigating six deaths that may be connected to extreme cold weather conditions experienced over the weekend. The focus is on the tragic impact of low temperatures, especially on vulnerable populations.

Overview of the Cold Weather Deaths

The latest fatality involved a 52-year-old man found unresponsive on a street in Queens. He was discovered by police responding to a 911 call at 96th Street and 34th Avenue in North Corona on Sunday around 10:30 a.m. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) declared him dead approximately 40 minutes later.

This death marked the sixth case possibly linked to the severe cold snap the city faced. Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed that five others had died in similar circumstances on Saturday, amidst the worst cold the city has seen in years.

Details of the Recent Incidents

• The first death occurred early Saturday morning when an unconscious man was found outside 185-46 Hilburn Ave. in Jamaica, Queens. He later died in a hospital.
• Two men were discovered unconscious at different sites in Manhattan that same morning. One died on the scene, while the other succumbed to his injuries in a hospital.
• In Brooklyn, a man and a woman were also found dead in separate locations; both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Mayor’s Response and Community Support

During a press conference on Sunday, Mayor Mamdani expressed condolences to the victims’ families. He emphasized the dangers of extreme cold, particularly for those lacking shelter. “For those without shelter, the intense cold can be fatal,” he remarked.

Authorities are actively investigating each case, with the medical examiner set to determine the official causes of death. The NYPD has urged the public to report any individuals in need to 311, a service that is now connected to 911 for emergency responses during the city’s ongoing “cold blue” alert.

Support for Vulnerable Populations

As the city deals with these tragic events, the Department of Social Services continues outreach efforts for vulnerable residents. They aim to ensure that those at risk receive necessary assistance during these harsh weather conditions.

This tragic series of events serves as a stark reminder of the risks that extreme cold poses, especially to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.