NYCHA building partially collapses in Bronx, no injuries yet reported by city officials

"A public housing tower partially collapsed in the South Bronx on Wednesday morning, forcing residents to evacuate, New York City officials said. No injuries were immediately reported, but the fire department and other agencies said they were still responding to the scene. The building at Alexander Avenue and East 137th Street is part of NYCHA's Mitchel Houses, officials confirmed. They warned people to avoid the area as first responders continued their work."

"City Councilmember Diana Ayala, who represents the area and was on the scene early Wednesday, said officials are considering relocating tenants from the building because structural engineers will visit each apartment to ensure they are safe. The problems that appeared to lead to the partial collapse are "a symptom of a bigger issue in the lack of investment in public housing," she said."

"The FDNY said an incinerator shaft collapsed and firefighters were investigating a potential gas leak. City emergency management officials said utility company Con Ed has shut off the gas to the building and a community center at Alexander Avenue has been set up as a temporary shelter. NYPD officials said no housing units appeared to be damaged by the collapse."

A public housing tower in the South Bronx partially collapsed Wednesday morning, prompting the evacuation of residents. No injuries were immediately reported as the FDNY, NYPD, buildings department and other agencies responded. An incinerator shaft reportedly collapsed and firefighters investigated a possible gas leak; Con Ed shut off gas service. A community center on Alexander Avenue is serving as a temporary shelter. NYPD said no housing units appeared damaged, while NYCHA and city officials said investigators and structural engineers will inspect apartments and assess safety. City Councilmember Diana Ayala said tenants may be relocated and linked the incident to underinvestment in public housing. The event echoed a December 2023 Bronx collapse that displaced families.

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