The 61-year-old man was was suddenly sucked into a machine after entering the room while a scan was in progressPaige Ingram Multimedia Journalist and Gary Stewart Audience Editor
14:16, 19 Jul 2025Updated 14:17, 19 Jul 2025
MRI machines use intensely powerful magnets that can draw in metal objects, (Image: BBC/Wildflame Productions)
A man has tragically lost his life after being pulled into an MRI machine in a horrific accident. Patients undergoing MRI scans are routinely instructed to remove all jewellery and piercings for safety reasons, as the equipment produces extremely powerful magnetic fields.
However, a 61 year old who failed to heed this crucial warning has sadly perished as a consequence.
The tragic incident took place at approximately 4.30pm local time on Wednesday, July 16 at Nassau Open MRI on Old Country Road in Westbury, New York State, according to Nassau County police.
Authorities were informed that a man had entered an MRI room whilst a scan was in progress.
Police confirmed he was wearing a substantial metallic chain around his neck during the incident, which caused him to be dragged into the apparatus. This resulted in a “medical episode,” officers stated.
Further details have not been disclosed immediately, reports the Mirror.
The man, whose identity remains unknown, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries but died the following day, less than 24 hours after the devastating incident.
It remains unclear whether the gentleman was a patient at the MRI centre during the incident or his reasons for entering the room.
One eyewitness informed CBS News that the man had ignored instructions to remain outside the room after hearing his relative’s cries from within and became alarmed.
MRI machines utilise extraordinarily powerful magnets capable of attracting metallic objects, rendering it dangerous to bring any metal near the equipment.
A man was killed after being pulled into an MRI machine in New York by his metal necklace(Image: Getty Images)
The magnetic field operates continuously, and even tiny items can become deadly projectiles.
Injuries can vary from minor burns and cuts to serious wounds. Specifics regarding the man’s injuries from Wednesday’s incident have not been disclosed.
An inquiry is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances, but authorities have stated that there seems to be no criminal activity involved.
The Mirror has attempted to contact Nassau Open MRI for a statement, but they had not responded at the time of publication.