A tragic incident occurred in Queens on Saturday, resulting in the death of a veteran sanitation worker, Richard Errico. The 54-year-old worker was crushed by his own garbage truck as he attempted to make a U-turn at a DSNY garage in Douglaston. Police reported that Errico fell out of his truck, and both the front and back wheels ran over him, leading to his untimely death. The exact reason for Errico falling out of the truck remains unclear, and the NYPD is currently investigating the incident.
Richard Errico had dedicated 19 years of service to the sanitation department, working tirelessly to keep the streets and communities of New York City safe and clean. Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences to Errico’s family, highlighting the important role that sanitation workers play in the city. He acknowledged Errico’s commitment to making a difference in the community, a sentiment echoed by sanitation department commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Errico had served the Douglaston, Littleneck, and Bayside neighborhoods during his time at DSNY, demonstrating his dedication to his work and the residents he served. His tragic death serves as a reminder of the risks that essential workers like sanitation employees face every day while carrying out their duties to keep the city running smoothly.
This heartbreaking incident sheds light on the challenges and dangers that sanitation workers encounter in the line of duty. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need to ensure that proper measures are in place to protect workers from harm. The sanitation department and city officials must take steps to investigate the circumstances surrounding Errico’s death thoroughly and implement any necessary changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of Richard Errico is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by essential workers and the need to prioritize their safety and well-being.
