Harlem, New York City, August 21, 2025
News Summary
A lawsuit has been filed against Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA following a deadly Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem that claimed five lives and affected over 100 individuals. The legal action alleges negligence in the management of cooling towers at Harlem Hospital. Community leaders are demanding accountability as the health department investigates the source of the outbreak, which has resulted in several hospitalizations and raised serious concerns regarding public health safety protocols in the area.
New York City – A lawsuit has been filed against two construction companies, Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA, in connection with a tragic outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease that has resulted in five deaths and over 100 reported illnesses in Harlem. The legal action specifically highlights the companies’ alleged negligence in failing to properly clean stormwater from cooling towers at Harlem Hospital, which is believed to have facilitated the growth of Legionella bacteria.
The lawsuit has been initiated on behalf of two construction workers, Duane Headley and Nunzio Quinto, who required hospitalization due to Legionnaires’ disease. The outbreak, termed “completely preventable,” had devastating consequences for the community, raising serious concerns about health and safety regulations in the area.
Community leader Rev. Al Sharpton recently addressed the public’s fears during a news conference, reiterating the community’s demand for accountability. According to reports, the cooling towers at Harlem Hospital became contaminated after heavy storms in July filled them with untreated rainwater, creating perfect conditions for the bacteria to thrive.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are often flu-like and may include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing, with an incubation period that can extend up to two weeks. The first cases related to this outbreak were diagnosed on July 22. Since then, the city’s health department confirmed the presence of Legionella bacteria in 12 cooling towers across ten buildings in Central Harlem. Currently, more than 14 individuals remain hospitalized as a result of this outbreak.
Following the initial diagnoses, city officials took swift action by disinfecting and remediating all affected cooling towers. The lawsuit seeks compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering endured by the affected workers. Mayor Eric Adams has defended the city’s health response, stating that the bacteria can reproduce rapidly, sometimes even after inspections report negative results.
Both Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA have been contacted for comment regarding the lawsuit, with Skanska confirming their cooperation with health officials for inspections and remediation efforts. Historically, outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease in New York City have led to regulatory changes, including a mandate for more stringent testing of cooling towers every 90 days to enhance public safety.
The Health Department continues to investigate the origin of this outbreak and is working to identify which specific cooling towers contributed to the illnesses. Community advocates, including Ella Cortez, have voiced their frustration over the perceived neglect of health issues affecting Harlem, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety measures to prevent future outbreaks.
As the city grapples with the repercussions of the outbreak, community members demand better attention to health infrastructure and accountability from the responsible parties to ensure the safety and well-being of Harlem residents.
FAQs
What caused the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem?
The outbreak was attributed to the failure of Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA to clean stormwater from cooling towers at Harlem Hospital, allowing for the proliferation of Legionella bacteria.
How many people have been affected by this outbreak?
The outbreak has resulted in five fatalities and over 100 reported illnesses, with more than 14 individuals currently hospitalized.
What are the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease?
Symptoms may include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. The incubation period can last up to two weeks.
What measures are being taken to address the outbreak?
City officials have disinfected and remediated all affected cooling towers. The Health Department is investigating the outbreak and continuing to monitor public health safety.
What legal actions have been taken regarding the outbreak?
A lawsuit has been filed against Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA seeking damages for medical costs, lost wages, and suffering of the affected workers.
Key Features of the Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak in Harlem
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Deaths | 5 fatalities |
| Reported Illnesses | Over 100 cases |
| Legal Action | Filed against Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA |
| Infected Cooling Towers | 12 cooling towers identified |
| Current Hospitalizations | More than 14 individuals still hospitalized |
| Incubation Period | Up to 2 weeks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New York City Faces Major Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
