New York Personal Injury News & NYC Legal Current Events

New York Crane Accident Trial Continues For William Rapetti

The manslaughter trial of the rigger many believe was responsible for the tragic crane accident in Manhattan in 2008 is underway this week, with a number of witnesses testifying about the day in March two years ago when the 200-foot-long crane crashed into the streets of New York City, killing seven people and seriously injuring two dozen others.

William Rapetti, owner of Rapetti Rigging Services, is on trial for a number of charges, including negligent homicide and falsifying documents. He has admitted to not checking the crane supports on before the crane accident, and prosecutors say that he ignored a number of federal building regulations. The crane fell as it was being raised. Rapetti’s defense is arguing that the majority of blame lies with New York City’s Buildings Department, which lied about inspecting the crane and which wasn’t even aware an illegally tall building was being constructed at the building site. Rapetti has pled not guilty to all charges.

One survivor of the New York crane accident, 33-year-old John Gallego, testified in court about his experience – he was sitting in his apartment on his couch when the crane fell on his building, leaving him trapped in the rubble. He was rescued four hours later, but had to undergo a number of leg surgeries and still walks with a cane. Gallego’s friend, Oldin Torres, who was visiting from another state, was killed in Gallego’s apartment when the crane fell.

Rapetti faces 15 years in jail if convicted.

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