Photo: Spencer Platt / Getty Images News / Getty Images
An explosion at the New York City Housing Authority's Mitchel Houses in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx led to the partial collapse of a high-rise apartment building on Wednesday. The blast, believed to have originated in the boiler room, caused a 20-story chimney to collapse, sending debris to the ground. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident has left dozens of residents displaced.
According to THE CITY, the explosion occurred on the first day of the heating season, when boilers are activated to provide hot water. The explosion ripped open the corner of the building at 205 Alexander Avenue, though adjacent apartments remained unaffected. Residents in the affected areas were evacuated as the Department of Buildings assessed the structural integrity of the building.
The New York Times reported that the explosion was linked to a ventilation shaft connected to the boiler room. The building's heating plant had been inspected in June, and NYCHA stated that prior open violations were not believed to have contributed to the explosion.
Residents expressed concerns about the safety of the building and the conditions of public housing in New York City. Marsha Williams, president of the Mitchel Houses tenant association, questioned the safety of other buildings in light of the incident. Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson highlighted the need for improved safety measures, referencing previous collapses in the area.
Mayor Eric Adams and city officials are investigating the cause of the explosion. Gas to the building has been shut off, and demolition of the collapsed chimney is underway to restore services. Residents living near the collapsed area will be temporarily housed in hotels. The city has urged people to use alternate routes due to traffic delays and ongoing investigations.
Photo Credit: Getty Images