NEW YORK, NY – A high-rise building in the Bronx’s Mott Haven neighborhood partially collapsed Sunday morning, setting off a flurry of emergency activities but fortunately resulting in no injuries. The incident involved the fall of an incinerator shaft that brought down part of the building’s facade.
The event occurred at approximately 8:10 a.m. at the Mitchell Houses on Alexander Avenue. Witnesses described the alarming sight as the chimney stack, towering over 20 stories, crashed to the ground.
Emergency teams were on the scene promptly, evacuating residents and examining the structural stability of the building. Initial reports suggest an explosion in the boiler room might have been the cause. Mayor Eric Adams, who was briefed at the site, pointed out that it was the first day of the heating season, which could have played a role.
Residents reported detecting a gas odor before the collapse, and the Department of Buildings confirmed that work was underway on the boiler, with the necessary permits secured.
Debris from the collapse, including bricks and air conditioning units, fell onto a playground area, which was empty at the time. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and senior NYPD officials were on-site to manage the situation.
Residents shared their experiences, with one individual recounting how she fled with her infant as the building shook. Another resident described the initial shock, thinking it was a traffic accident.
The Mitchell Houses, dating back to 1966, house about 1,700 residents. Those affected by the collapse are being provided with temporary accommodations as the investigation proceeds.
Officials are now focused on ensuring the building’s safety and addressing the interruption of services like heat and hot water as colder weather approaches.