New York apartment building partially collapses following gas explosion
A 17-story flat building in New York City partially collapsed after a gas explosion.
The explosion took place at the NYC Housing Authority’s Mitchel Houses on Alexander Avenue near East 137th Street in the Bronx around 8am today.
An incinerator shaft attached to the complex fell, creating a large hole along the side of the structure, according to the New York City Fire Department.
The remainder of the building stayed intact.
No injuries were reported, and there was no damage to any of the flats, according to the department.
The building appeared to be stable but is being assessed by the Department of Buildings. The agency’s website showed that there was a partial stop work order issued for the building from June 25.
Two K-9 units searched the rubble and debris and found no signs of anyone trapped, according to the New York Police Department.
The housing authority stated that it worked with the fire, police, and building departments, New York City Emergency Management, and Con Edison in addressing the situation.
‘Early reports indicate an explosion in a building chimney,’ stated the housing authority.
‘Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and an investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the incident and the extent of any damage beyond the reported exterior damage to the chimney.
‘Agencies are on site to ensure the safety of residents and the public.’
Mayor Eric Adams said he had been briefed on the ’emergency situation’ in the Mott Haven area.
First responders converged at the scene and panicked residents looked on in horror at the scene Wednesday morning (Picture: Getty Images)
‘We are receiving a full assessment from first responders and will continue to provide updates,’ he wrote on X.
‘Please avoid the area for your safety.’
The cause of the explosion is under investigation. The blast reportedly also caused an underground water main to collapse.
Residents are gathering at a community centre at Alexander Avenue and 138th Street.
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