Deadly Brooklyn Building Collapse Unfolded as Rescuers Searched the Rubble
Rescue Efforts Continue in Brooklyn
New York City Fire Department crews responded to the scene on Flatbush Avenue and worked to rescue people from the rubble. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams urged New Yorkers to pray for anyone who might still be trapped; he said he saw a toddler being removed from the debris.
Police told FOX 5 New York that at least 19 people were injured, some with life-threatening injuries. FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said several people were in critical condition and one firefighter had a minor injury. She also said seven of the injured were children, though their ages were not immediately available.
Reports Differ on Death Toll
The initial report attributed to the FDNY said at least five people had died and 17 were injured. Later accounts said at least eight people had died; the Associated Press also reported that many more were injured.
The reporting therefore gives conflicting figures for both deaths and injuries. The cause of the partial collapse had not been determined.
Officials Urge Caution
Police advised the public to avoid the area and warned commuters about street closures and traffic delays. Department of Buildings inspectors arrived to support recovery work and check the structural stability of nearby buildings.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani asked the public to keep the community and emergency responders in their thoughts as operations continued. Gov. Kathy Hochul said her administration had offered support while authorities investigate what happened.
Key points
- The three-story building partially collapsed on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn on Wednesday.
- Reports conflict: the death toll was first given as at least five, then at least eight.
- Police reported at least 19 injuries; FDNY said seven injured people were children.
- The cause was not immediately known, and nearby buildings were being inspected.