At least eight people were killed and 17 others injured when a three-story residential building collapsed on Wednesday afternoon in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn.
What happened during the collapse?
Witnesses described a scene of sudden destruction. James Williams, who witnessed the event, described seeing the building crumble and exposing the neighboring structure, noting that he spotted a woman on a staircase, adding, “There wasn’t anything I could do.”
How are rescue efforts progressing?
Approximately 250 firefighters and paramedics responded to the scene, supported by canine units from both the FDNY and the NYPD. First responders worked to clear a massive heap of debris that included mattresses, a refrigerator, and personal items like vinyl records and shoes. Firefighters were seen using flashlights to illuminate the work area as night fell, and a drone was deployed to survey the site from above.
FDNY commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said that the death toll could potentially rise because the number of people inside the building remains unconfirmed. She said the operation will last several days. Disaster relief organization Heart 9/11 is assisting with the volunteer response. “Mobilizing what we’ve got,” said Joseph Gonzalez of Heart 9/11, noting that the group is working to coordinate transportation and short-term housing for those displaced.
Who was affected?
The collapse has left the community in mourning. Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed the death toll on Thursday, offering his condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. Among those killed was 26-year-old José Luis Caguana, an immigrant from Ecuador and a construction worker. His brother, Carlos, said Caguana was the sole provider for his family, leaving behind a young son and a pregnant wife.
Rescue workers have spent the night searching the site of yesterday’s building collapse, working under extremely dangerous conditions to find and save anyone who may still be trapped. I am heartbroken that eight New Yorkers have now lost their lives and at least 17 have been…
What is known about the construction and investigation?
City inspectors issued a stop work order at the site earlier this year due to demolition violations. Construction safety expert Glenn Corbett of John Jay College said that determining the cause of the accident will take time. Corbett said, “It could be a design flaw, it could be a construction flaw, or it could be some kind of work that was going on.”
The owner of the development project, a limited liability company led by Robert Fischman and his partners, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, the Bridge Multicultural Advocacy Project has transitioned into a donation drop-off site, and the Flatbush YMCA is acting as a welcome center.
Mark Appel of the Bridge Multicultural Advocacy Project noted the high volume of community support, stating, “We’re going to be busy all weekend just answering the phone calls. You know, people want to help.”
Earlier coverage: Eight Killed in Brooklyn Building Collapse, Mayor Mamdani Says