Man Fatally Pulled Into MRI Machine While Helping Wife

What began as a regular medical visit quickly turned into a nightmare. Keith McAllister, 61, was at Nassau Open MRI in Westbury, New York, accompanying his wife Adrienne for a knee scan.

When she needed help getting off the MRI table, Keith stepped into the scanning room, still wearing a 20-pound metal chain around his neck.

Pulled by the MRI Magnet

The MRI machine’s powerful magnetic field immediately locked onto the chain, violently pulling Keith toward the device. Despite desperate efforts from his wife and a technician to hold him back, the force was too strong. Keith collapsed, and tragically, he never recovered.

He suffered multiple heart attacks while trapped, and it took nearly an hour to remove him from the machine. He passed away in the hospital the following day.

Questions Over MRI Safety Protocols

Adrienne McAllister stated that the metal chain had been discussed in previous visits and believes the technician failed to follow proper screening procedures. Typically, MRI environments require strict removal of all metal objects before anyone can enter. The fact that Keith was allowed into the room with the chain raises serious concerns about staff training and adherence to safety rules.

Family Devastated and Seeking Answers

Adrienne described the horrifying moment: seeing her husband go limp as he was wrenched from her grasp. Their daughter has launched a fundraiser to help with funeral expenses, noting that her parents lived on a fixed income and were not prepared for such a loss.

The emotional trauma has rippled through the family, who say they want accountability, not just for closure, but to ensure this never happens again.

A Wake-Up Call for Clinics

This tragedy marks one of only a few fatal MRI incidents ever recorded in the U.S., but it’s a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by these powerful machines. Even something as simple as a piece of jewelry or workout gear can become deadly.

Experts emphasize that thorough screening must always be performed before anyone enters an MRI room. Clinics are urged to revisit their training, protocols, and safety measures immediately.

Investigation Underway

Nassau County authorities are currently investigating the incident. The facility has not issued a public statement. A full report from the Medical Examiner is expected soon, and the family may pursue legal action depending on the findings.

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