A dramatic incident in the Bronx unfolded on Wednesday morning when part of a ventilation shaft collapsed down the side of a residential high-rise, following an explosion in the building’s boiler room. The explosion led to a significant portion of the corner of the NYCHA building crumbling into a pile of bricks. Remarkably, no injuries were reported.
Footage captured the chaotic moment as dust and smoke filled the air, while panicked voices could be heard nearby. The video shows the upper part of the shaft giving way approximately 20 seconds after the initial collapse, sending large bricks tumbling down. Additional videos circulating online reveal a gaping hole along the building’s side at the Mitchel Houses in the Mott Haven neighborhood.
Responding to the emergency, the FDNY deployed drones and search dogs to scour the debris, ensuring that no one was trapped beneath the rubble. The use of drone technology provided a crucial aerial perspective to assess the extent of the damage effectively.
As a precautionary measure, two wings of the 20-story building were evacuated, and essential services including gas, heat, and hot water have been turned off throughout the housing complex. City officials are currently inspecting the building’s foundation and individual apartments, while also working to remove the remaining structure of the shaft and gain access to the basement to restore services.
Residents affected by the incident can seek assistance at the Red Cross reception center located within the Mitchel Community Center at 210 Alexander Ave. or contact NYCHA or 311 for further information. Despite the chaos, the swift action of responders and the absence of injuries highlight a positive outcome in a potentially dangerous situation.