US / New York City Crane Crash Kills 4 in Manhattan At least 4 people trapped; several buildings damaged By Kevin Spak, Newser Staff Posted Mar 15, 2008 3:25 PM CDT Copied New York City first responders remove a victim of a crane collapse to an awaiting ambulance, in New York, Saturday, March 15, 2008. (AP Photo/Frances Roberts) A gigantic crane collapsed in Manhattan today, killing four and putting several others in critical condition as it smashed into nearby buildings, Newsday reports. The crane was about 19 stories tall and demolished at least one building entirely. Police have swarmed the area as emergency crews try to rescue people from crushed buildings on East 51st Street between First and Second avenues. The owner of the on-site construction company, Reliance Construction Group, called it "an absolute freak accident. All the piece of steel had to do was fall slightly left or right, and nothing would have happened." He added that Reliance subcontracted work to other companies and did not manage the crane. Witnesses reported an explosion after the crash and a strong smell of gas in the area. (More New York City stories.) Get breaking news in your inbox. What you need to know, as soon as we know it. Sign up Report an error