Brooklyn Building Collapse: Death Toll Climbs as Rescuers Work Through Rubble

Collapse on Flatbush Avenue

The building fell into a nearby construction site just after 4 p.m. Wednesday. The collapse also tore off part of an adjacent building, which was significantly damaged. The three-story structure had multiple uses and was fully occupied by residents. Construction workers were carrying out excavation work in the pit.

Eight deaths reported

By Thursday morning, the FDNY reported at least eight people had died and 17 were injured. Six victims were found dead at the scene, while two died at a hospital.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said three firefighters were among those injured. He called the event devastating and praised first responders for carrying out a high-risk operation.

Search continues overnight

Emergency crews worked overnight under floodlights, using drones and K-9 units to search the rubble. Video from Thursday morning showed firefighters looking for more victims.

Reviews and work halted

Officials are investigating what caused the ground to give way and will conduct comprehensive reviews of conditions at the collapsed building and neighboring construction site. Investigators said developers had active permits for excavation and foundation work linked to a new building project.