8 killed after three-story building collapses in New York City
What's the story
Eight people have been killed so far after a three-story building in Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood, New York City, collapsed on Wednesday afternoon. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) initially reported two deaths after the building collapsed, but the death toll continued to rise as rescue crews find more bodies. Rescue operations are still underway with over 250 fire and EMS personnel on-site.
Casualties and probe
Investigation launched into cause of incident
"I am heartbroken that eight New Yorkers have now lost their lives and at least 17 have been injured, including three firefighters,"New York City Mayor Mamdani said Thursday morning.
Among the injured are four who are critically hurt and several others with minor injuries.
The FDNY is using drones and vacuum trucks to search for survivors under the rubble.
An investigation is underway into what caused the sudden collapse.
Ongoing investigation
Collapse occurred next to open construction site
The collapse occurred next to an open construction site at 2625 Bedford Avenue, where developers had permits for excavation and foundation work.
In March, the DOB issued a stop-work order after discovering that demolition was happening without proper shielding to neighboring properties, including 1321 Flatbush Avenue.
Despite this, demolition continued in violation of the order, leading to a $10,000 fine against the contractor.
Construction halted
All work at site has been halted
The DOB lifted the stop work order in May after developers complied with regulations. However, following Wednesday's collapse, all work at 2625 Bedford Avenue has been halted again.
The rescue mission has been described as "extremely dangerous" by FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore.
She added that people from the collapsed building and also the construction site were trapped. "Members have been working methodically and haven't stopped since they arrived this afternoon," Bonsignore said.