A significant gas explosion resulted in a section of a residential building collapsing in the Bronx, New York, prompting the arrival of emergency services. The incident, which occurred at 8:30 am local time today, caused visible cracks along the side of a high-rise structure on Alexander Avenue near East 135th Street in the Mott Haven neighborhood. Authorities have advised motorists to steer clear of the affected area.
Former New York governor and mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo commended the city’s firefighters for their courage in responding to the incident. He expressed gratitude for the bravery and sacrifice of all first responders, emphasizing the resilience of the city and its everyday heroes. Meanwhile, New York Mayor hopeful Zohran Mamdani expressed relief that there were no reported injuries, praising the prompt actions of the FDNY and other emergency personnel.
Inspectors from the New York Department of Buildings are en route to the partially collapsed building following reports from local residents who had detected a gas odor before the explosion. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry confirmed the ongoing search and rescue operation, noting the absence of injuries thus far. Authorities attributed the collapse to an incinerator shaft failure within the building, which spans more than 10 stories.
Mayor Eric Adams assured New Yorkers of updates on the emergency situation, urging people to avoid the affected area. The New York Fire Department cautioned the public about potential debris, smoke, and traffic disruptions in the vicinity. A visual from the FDNY captured the extensive crack running down the building’s side, further highlighting the situation.
Residents have been advised to anticipate traffic delays and seek alternative routes due to the aftermath of the explosion. Witnesses in the neighborhood observed that the collapsed portion of the building housed gas pipes, with debris scattered outside. Reports suggest that the explosion originated from the pipes, leading to the building’s structural failure.