A multi-story residential building in Bronx crumbled Tuesday morning following chimney explosion. Initial reports point to structural failure from blast. Firefighters launched rescue operations immediately. No injuries or fatalities confirmed yet.
Emergency crews combed debris for trapped residents. Bronx fire department spokesperson noted swift response minimized risks. Teams scanned site using thermal imaging, dogs. Neighbors heard loud boom around 9 a.m., followed by dust cloud engulfing block.
New York Mayor Eric Adams addressed incident via social media. “Heartbroken by Bronx collapse. Praying for safety,” Adams posted. He urged nearby residents evacuate to secure zones. City officials coordinated with Red Cross for temporary shelters.
Building, located in busy residential area, housed dozens families. Cause under investigation; experts suspect chimney overload sparked blast. Structural engineers en route assess damage radius.
One witness who spoke with CBS News, BBC‘s US partner, says she called 911 after seeing smoke.
“The whole building just – you heard a loud boom, and the thing just exploded, and it fell down just like that,” she said.
“Somebody in the building next to me, they said that their window even fell, and it’s on the 16th floor,” another witness told CBS.
Fire chief praised calm evacuation. “Residents followed orders quickly. Focus now: accountability, support,” chief said. Adams vowed aid for displaced Bronx families. Updates expected soon as crews clear scene.
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Citywide alerts warned against approaching zone. Traffic diverted; schools nearby dismissed early. Bronx community rallies, offering water, aid to first responders.
