Brooklyn Developer Avoided Stricter Oversight Before Fatal Building Collapse
Two different building plans
In March 2026, the city approved plans for a three-story, eight-unit project at 2625 Bedford Avenue in Flatbush. Records show that the developer had been seeking a larger project as far back as November 2025.
The later proposal called for nine stories, 64 apartments, a 9,000-square-foot community space and a grocery store. The city had not approved those plans by Wednesday, when the neighboring building collapsed into the construction site.
Collapse brings scrutiny
The collapse killed eight people, injured 18 and left dozens displaced. The developer was excavating the Bedford Avenue site when the neighboring structure, more than 96 years old, fell.
City officials were examining on Friday whether the attempt to build a taller structure factored into the collapse. Building experts said the difference between the approved and proposed projects could be important to understanding what happened.
Oversight and company response
The developer was a limited-liability company tied to real estate investor Robert Fischman. Neither Fischman nor other company representatives could be reached for comment on Friday, despite phone calls and visits to their homes.
Key points
- The city approved a three-story, eight-unit project at 2625 Bedford Avenue.
- The developer sought permission for a nine-story building with 64 apartments and other uses.
- The larger plans were unapproved when the neighboring building collapsed.
- The collapse killed eight, injured 18 and displaced dozens.