Powerful Explosion On Sewage Barge Kills Worker In West Harlem

A longtime employee of New York City’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) lost his life on May 24, 2025, after a powerful explosion occurred aboard a sewage barge docked at the North River Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility in West Harlem, according to city officials.

The explosion occurred around 10:30 a.m. near West 135th Street and 12th Avenue, while the vessel was docked at the city-operated sewage treatment plant along the Hudson River.

The barge, identified as the city-owned Hunts Point, was being used to transport raw sewage to another facility for treatment.

Authorities reported that three DEP workers were on the vessel at the time. One of them, 59-year-old Raymond Feigi, a chief marine diesel engineer and 33 year old veteran of the department was thrown into the water by the force of the explosion.

He became trapped between the vessel and the pier and was later found unconscious and unresponsive. He was declared dead at the scene.

Feige was a well-known and respected figure in the department. Officials from the DEP shared that he had spent his entire career in the marine section, describing it as his “home away from home.” He was known for his steady presence and strong bond with his colleagues.

A DEP spokesperson said, “Ray was a respected engineer and a steady, beloved colleague who will be deeply missed. His commitment to the job and the people he worked with made a lasting impact.”

Two other DEP employees were also injured in the blast. One of them was taken to a nearby hospital, while the other declined medical attention due to minor injuries.

Fire Department of New York (FDNY) officials confirmed they responded to reports of a boat fire and a water rescue. Marine and hazmat teams were dispatched to the scene.

While there was no active fire when emergency crews arrived, raw sewage had spilled across the deck, leading to the decontamination of several firefighters and first responders.

According to FDNY Deputy Assistant Chief David Simms, the blast did not cause visible pollution in the river. The US Coast Guard, which is leading the investigation, said the workers on the boat had been performing tasks involving open flames or sparks when the explosion happened.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences and said that criminal activity is not suspected in this incident, “He was a devoted public servant who gave 33 years of service to New York City, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this painful time,” he stated.

Officials from the DEP confirmed that the explosion did not disrupt the operations of the wastewater treatment plant, and there were no environmental impacts in the surrounding area.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation by local and federal authorities.

References: fox5ny, FirstPost

Source: Maritime Shipping News