A significant gas explosion occurred Wednesday morning at the Mitchel Houses, part of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), located on Alexander Avenue in the Bronx’s Mott Haven neighborhood. The incident took place around 8 a.m. and led to a partial collapse of the building, specifically the incinerator shaft of the 17-story structure.
Fortunately, the rest of the building remains stable, and ongoing assessments by the Department of Buildings are ensuring that no apartments have been affected. Although a nearby school stood across the street, authorities reported that there had been no need for an evacuation.
First responders from the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), the New York Police Department (NYPD), the NYC Buildings Department, and the Department of Environmental Protection swiftly arrived at the scene. Con Edison has since shut off gas services to the impacted building. Additionally, the explosion resulted in a collapsed underground water main, contributing to the complex situation.
A drone and canine unit will be deployed to thoroughly search the damaged area for potential injuries, although no injuries have been reported thus far. A visible pile of bricks and debris marked the site of the collapse, prompting officials to relocate residents to a nearby community center located at 138th Street and Alexander Avenue for their safety and support.
Mayor Eric Adams has acknowledged the incident via social media, demonstrating continued city leadership and responsiveness in crisis situations. The community remains alert, with various city agencies coordinating closely to ensure the welfare of residents and to assess the building’s condition comprehensively.
In these challenging moments, the swift response from emergency services highlights their commitment to public safety, with the ongoing evaluations expected to bring clarity and reassurance to the residents affected by this scare.