51st Street Crane Collapse: Issues in the Investigation during Criminal Proceedings

Following the collapse of an external self-climbing tower crane at 303 East 51st Street, New York, New York, on March 15, 2008, Ove Arup & Partners, PC (Arup) was hired by the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDOB) to provide engineering and investigative services. Many government agencies were involved during the investigation, including NYCDOB, the NYC District Attorney, NYC Department of Investigations and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The investigation carried out by Arup will be described together with the limitations which were imposed as a result of the need to interface with these agencies. This description is with regard to our direct experiences and does not reflect any interpretation or application of law.