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In a fatal accident that has sent shockwaves through the medical community, a 61-year-old man from Long Island, New York, died after getting sucked into an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, July 16, at Nassau County Open MRI Center in Westbury, as confirmed by New York Police.
Alleged Sequence of Events
According to reports, the man, whose details have not been revealed by police, had visited the center with his relative for the latter’s MRI scan.
While waiting outside the scanning room, he suddenly heard his relative screaming in pain. Concerned, he entered the treatment room, defying the orders to stay out while the scan was in progress.
Wearing a metallic chain around his neck, he was immediately pulled into the MRI machine, triggering a serious medical emergency.
Alarmed by the unfolding scene, the medical staff immediately called 911. Emergency responders from the Nassau County Police and paramedics arrived at the facility around 4:30 pm, launching a coordinated medical and safety response.
The man was then transferred to North Shore University Hospital in a critically injured condition, where he died within 24 hours. His time of death is reported as 2:36 pm on Thursday, July 17.
One of the officials speaking about the case to the media said,
“The male victim was wearing a large metallic chain around his neck, causing him to be drawn into the machine, which resulted in a medical episode.”
Investigations Underway
The Nassau County Police are investigating the case and have not shared any details about the deceased man or the type of injuries he suffered.
One of the attending doctors from North Shore University Hospital believed the cause of death to be strangulation from the neck chain.
While the center has refrained from commenting, the incident has renewed focus on the dangers of bringing metal objects near MRI machines.
Doctors Warn of MRI Dangers Linked to Metal Objects
Experts say this magnetic force extends beyond the machine and exerts a powerful pull on objects made of metal like iron, certain types of steel, or other magnetizable materials.
Therefore, before placing any patient for an MRI scan, extreme caution is taken. All metallic objects—including jewelry, belts, or even certain clothing—are removed. Technicians also inquire about any metallic implants the patient may have.
Medical experts warn that not following these protocols can lead to catastrophic consequences.
“The danger could be catastrophic, and it underscores why we have all the safety precautions in place,” said Dr. Payal Sud.
“It would act like a torpedo, trying to get into the middle of the center of the magnet,” added Charles Winterfeldt, director of imaging services, in a statement to CBS New York.
Doctors pointed out that while dangerous, such MRI accidents involving metallic objects are not commonly reported.
What It Shows
This tragic accident reinforces why strict MRI safety protocols exist—not as a routine formality, but as lifesaving measures. A simple oversight involving a metallic chain cost a man his life, highlighting how easily preventable such incidents can be with proper precautions.
(Rh/Pooja Bansal/MSM/SE)
