A Long Island man died after being forcefully pulled into an active MRI machine while wearing a metal chain at a medical facility on Wednesday, as the New York Post reports.

The 61-year-old man was fatally injured after entering a restricted area at Nassau County Open MRI in Westbury, Long Island, resulting in a deadly accident caused by the magnetic pull of the machine.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when the man, who was not a patient, accompanied a family member to the imaging facility for a scheduled exam.

According to witnesses interviewed by media outlets, the man entered the MRI room after hearing his relative cry out in pain during the procedure. Despite being told to stay out of the room, he ignored the warnings and stepped inside.

Magnetic pull proves fatal

The man was wearing a large metal chain around his neck at the time, a hazardous item in proximity to an MRI machine. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical scanning technology that operates using powerful magnetic fields, which can become extremely dangerous when metal objects are introduced into the scanning environment. The machine’s magnetic pull immediately drew the chain -- and the man -- toward it.

Shortly after being pulled into the equipment, the man suffered a serious medical crisis inside the room. Emergency responders were called to the site, and he was quickly transferred to North Shore University Hospital for treatment. Despite doctors’ efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries the following day, Thursday.

The precise cause of his death has not yet been officially released by medical examiners. However, healthcare professionals have offered possible explanations based on the nature of the accident, suggesting injuries likely consistent with forceful compression or trauma due to the chain’s position.

Doctors share insights into outccome

Dr. Payal Sud, a physician familiar with MRI-related risks, noted the potential for extremely serious consequences when metal is involved in MRI environments. "If this was a chain that was wrapped around the neck, I could imagine any kind of strangulation injuries that could happen," Sud said.

Sud also stated that possible outcomes include "asphyxiation, cervical spine injuries," reflecting the variety of trauma a body might endure in such a violent interaction with an industrial-strength magnet. These statements emphasize just how critical it is to avoid any metal objects near MRI machines.

An investigation has been launched into the incident by local authorities. Although it remains ongoing, officials have determined that there is no sign of criminality. The man’s act of entering the restricted room while wearing metal appears to have been motivated by panic upon hearing his relative's distress.

Family tragedy unfolds in moments

The man’s decision, although instinctual and driven by concern, tragically led to his death. Witnesses told CBS reporters that he defied facility staff instructions to stay outside the imaging room. At this stage, it is unclear whether the MRI machine was already scanning or simply powered on when he entered.

Medical imaging sites typically enforce strict protocols around metal objects and room access for this very reason. These procedures are usually briefed to both patients and anyone accompanying them well before the start of diagnostic testing.

Despite these standard practices, unforeseen actions -- as was the case here -- can bypass the safety barriers designed to keep people from harm. MRI-related accidents, though rare, can be fatal when safety procedures are overlooked or ignored in moments of distress.

Lessons to learn

1. Never enter restricted areas without authorization. MRI rooms are clearly marked and restricted for a reason. Even if a loved one is in distress, it is critical to get assistance from trained personnel rather than act alone.

2. Always remove all metal before entering MRI areas. Metal objects, even small ones, can become projectile hazards due to the MRI’s magnet. Accessories such as jewelry, belts, or metal chains should never be near an MRI machine.

3. Stay informed and vigilant around medical technologies. Understanding the dangers and limitations of medical equipment like MRI machines can save lives. That said, tragedies can still occur, and we should never place blame on victims whose choices were made in moments of fear or care.

Why this story matters

This story highlights the often-overlooked dangers of high-powered medical equipment, even to those not undergoing treatment. It serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly an emergency can unfold when standard safety protocols are bypassed, even unintentionally.

Public awareness and thoughtful adherence to medical facility rules can prevent such avoidable tragedies. Sharing stories like this strengthens our community's understanding of serious risks that exist in seemingly routine environments.