What started as a minor traffic collision on W42nd Street Tuesday evening escalated into a full-blown Hazmat operation after first responders discovered a van loaded with dozens of propane cylinders and fuel cans. Shortly after 7pm, police and FDNY units were called to 476 W42nd Street between Dyer and 10th Avenue following a crash involving a Chevrolet Express van towing a food cart. The NYPD stated that the cart came loose while the van was traveling north on 10th Avenue, causing it to slam into a parked Kia Sorento occupied by a 48-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy. Both were transported to Mount Sinai West in stable condition.
What unfolded next stopped Hellโs Kitchen pedestrians in their tracks โ and blew up on social media. According to FDNY, officers at the scene noticed a strong odor of gasoline and spotted propane tanks in the back of the van. The driver initially claimed he couldnโt open the vehicle and attempted to dispose of his keys. Firefighters from Engine 65 forced entry into the van, where Hazmat crews ultimately removed 76 propane cylinders, 15 five-gallon fuel containers holding 75 gallons of gasoline, and 10 gallons of diesel. Officials described multiple serious fire code violations, and the Manhattan District Attorneyโs Office is now handling the case.
The dramatic images sparked speculation online, with commenters expressing concern about a possible terror threat. However, officials and observers familiar with the incident suggested the van was more likely used to refuel food carts around the city โ a common, if hazardous, practice. FDNY confirmed that Hazmat crews were called in to safely remove the propane tanks from the van. The department did not report any leaks or explosions.
The driver, identified as Sayed Khaled Elsayed Abdelmohsen, 31, of 9th Avenue in Hellโs Kitchen, was arrested at the scene. Police charged him with reckless endangerment, violation of local law, and motor vehicle license violation (no license). According to the FDNY, Abdelmohsen also received multiple fire code violations. The Manhattan District Attorneyโs Office is now handling the case and the investigation continues.
