Suzanne Hart, a 41-year-old director of new business and content for Y&R (formerly Young & Rubicam) was killed last month in an elevator accident that occurred in the New York office building where she worked. While stepping into the elevator it “lurched up” partially pinning her in the elevator shaft. Two people where in the elevator at the time but suffered no injuries. Ms. Hart was pronounced dead at the scene.

The New York Times reported that according to Robert LiMandri, the commissioner of the Buildings Department, work by repairmen from the maintenance company, Transel Elevator, was likely a contributing cause, or the cause, of the accident, based on the investigation so far. Mr. LiMandri stated in an interview:  “We know that there was work being done right before the unfortunate event, and we do believe that is a contributing cause, or the cause,” and “We know for sure that those events directly before this unfortunate accident clearly are part of our investigation.”

The buildings department had investigated 650 elevators city wide and believes that this tragic accident was a singular event. This sweep of elevators is the largest in city history. The district attorney’s office has been involved in the investigations as well, however, at this time no charges have been filed.

If you or someone you know has been seriously injured or killed in an elevator accident, you should immediately seek advice from a peronsal injury lawyer that is experienced in handling elevator accident cases. For a free consultation with such an attorney, complete the form to the left or call 212-566-1000. Based in New York City, Sullivan & Brill, LLP represents clients throughout the United States, as well as in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westchester County and other upstate New York counties.