Staten Island, NY (September 22, 2025) – A serious early-morning crash on the Staten Island Expressway left five people injured after a vehicle slammed into the rear of a fire truck responding to a separate incident. The collision occurred around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday near the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Expressway, according to the FDNY.
Authorities say the fire truck was already on scene handling an earlier accident when another vehicle struck it from behind. The impact caused significant damage and resulted in multiple injuries. One occupant of the civilian vehicle was trapped in the wreckage and had to be extricated by emergency crews using specialized rescue tools.
Five individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for evaluation and treatment, including one firefighter who sustained injuries while on duty. The extent of the injuries has not been publicly disclosed, but all patients were reported to be receiving care.
Traffic along the expressway was heavily impacted for several hours as emergency responders worked to assist victims and investigate the scene. FDNY units, along with NYPD Highway Patrol and other support personnel, coordinated efforts to secure the area and prevent further incidents.
An investigation into the crash remains active. Officials have not released information regarding possible charges or citations. We extend our best wishes to the injured and hope for their complete recovery.
Emergency Vehicle Accidents in New York
Accidents involving emergency responders—such as Sunday’s crash on the Staten Island Expressway—are among the most dangerous and disruptive types of traffic incidents. These collisions not only injure the occupants of civilian vehicles, but also put first responders at serious risk as they work to safeguard others.
This crash occurred while a fire truck was actively responding to an earlier incident. Such secondary collisions are unfortunately common on busy highways, particularly in early morning hours when visibility is reduced and driver alertness may be compromised. The involvement of five injured individuals, including a firefighter, underscores the high stakes of working on active roadways.
Drivers in New York are required by law to follow “Move Over” regulations—mandating that motorists slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles. Failing to do so can result in severe penalties and, as this case shows, devastating consequences.
Beyond the physical injuries, those involved in crashes like this often face mounting medical costs, emotional trauma, and disruptions to their daily lives. New York law provides injury victims, including emergency personnel hurt on duty, with pathways to seek compensation and support. Time-sensitive steps like gathering crash reports, securing medical records, and consulting legal professionals are key to protecting one’s rights.
Public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of Move Over laws, and improved highway safety designs all play a role in reducing these preventable tragedies. Still, when collisions do happen, having access to recovery resources is vital.
Injured in a crash involving an emergency vehicle? Local Accident Reports helps connect individuals with medical support, legal options, and personalized resources designed to aid recovery. Your well-being matters—reach out now and find out how to take the next step toward rebuilding your life after a serious accident.
