New York City, NY (December 24, 2025) – One woman lost her life and three others suffered injuries after a garbage truck lost control Tuesday morning, December 23, in East Harlem.
The crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. along First Avenue near East 101st Street. Police reported that a garbage truck struck several vehicles, triggering a chain reaction that caused scaffolding to collapse outside a residential building.
Surveillance video showed the truck hitting an unoccupied Kia Forte parked at the intersection. The impact pushed the vehicle onto the sidewalk and into scaffolding attached to a New York City Housing Authority building located at 345 East 101st Street. The scaffolding collapsed moments later.
Police confirmed that 75-year-old Li Liang died at the scene. She stood underneath the scaffolding when it fell. Authorities said she lived in the building with her husband. Emergency crews pronounced her dead following the collapse.
The crash also injured three other people. Another pedestrian suffered injuries, along with the 47-year-old garbage truck driver and a 50-year-old passenger. Paramedics transported all three to nearby hospitals with minor injuries. Officials later released the driver and passenger.
The Department of Buildings responded to inspect the structure after the collapse. Officials stated that the scaffolding had been installed several months earlier as part of building safety work. Tow trucks removed multiple damaged vehicles from the area.
The garbage truck belonged to Classic Recycling, a New Jersey-based waste management company operating in New York City. Investigators have not determined what caused the truck to lose control. Police confirmed that no charges have been filed. The investigation remains ongoing.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life in this tragic incident. Our best wishes to those injured and we hope they fully recover.
Fatal Truck Accidents in New York 
Fatal truck crashes often leave families facing emotional devastation and financial uncertainty. When a commercial vehicle causes a deadly incident, surviving relatives may have legal options under New York law. These cases often fall under wrongful death claims.
Families may pursue compensation to address both immediate and long-term losses caused by the crash. Possible forms of compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses: Families often face sudden and significant costs related to services, burial, and memorial arrangements.
- Medical expenses prior to death: If the victim received emergency care before passing, those medical bills may be recoverable.
- Loss of financial support: Compensation may account for income or financial contributions the deceased provided to the household.
- Loss of services: Families may recover damages for household help, caregiving, or other support the victim offered.
- Loss of companionship and guidance: The emotional impact of losing a loved one often affects spouses, children, and close relatives.
- Pain and suffering endured before death: In some cases, compensation may address the suffering experienced by the victim prior to passing.
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties. Liability may extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, contractors, or maintenance providers. Evidence such as vehicle data, maintenance records, and surveillance footage often plays a key role.
Insurance companies and corporate defendants usually act quickly to protect their interests. Families benefit from legal guidance when navigating these complex claims. A New York wrongful death lawyer can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, and handle communication with insurers.
At Metro Law, we know how overwhelming this time can feel. We help families pursue accountability after fatal truck accidents. Our team can handle the legal process with care and clarity while families focus on healing.
If you lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident in New York, we are here to help. Call Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 for a free consultation and learn what legal options may be available to you during this difficult time. We will work to protect your rights and seek fair compensation.
