A building has partially collapsed in New York City after reports of an "explosion", sparking an evacuation of residents from the site.
The incident took place at the complex on Alexander Avenue near East 135th Street in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx.
While no apartments are understood to be impacted, a part of the building was evacuated after the New York Fire Department were called to reports of a gas leak.
City Mayor Eric Adams wrote on social media: "New Yorkers, I have been briefed about the emergency situation taking place in the Mott Haven area of the Bronx...We are getting a full assessment from first responders and will continue to provide updates."
The apartment building in the Bronx partially collapsed
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Aerial footage shows partial collapse of Bronx apartment building
|NYFD
Parts of the building collapsed and fell into a nearby children's park
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A temporary shelter has been established at a community centre on Alexander Avenue.
Buses have been turned into temporary shelters, with residents urged to stay away from the area.
New York City firefighters first received reports of a gas explosion from the New York City Housing Authority building on Alexander Avenue, the New York City Fire Department said, after the incinerator shaft collapsed, resulting in a gas leak.
Early reports indicate the explosion came from a chimney within the Mitchel Houses building, according to a statement from the NYCHA.
Teams are investigating the extent of the damage, which has been reported as "exterior damage to the chimney," NYCHA said.
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Members of the FDNY and authorities work the scene where a confirmed building collapse transpired at 205 Alexander Avenue in Bronx
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The most recent NYCHA data suggests the housing complex has approximately 3,500 residents in 1,730 units across 10 residential buildings.
It encompasses two city blocks and was completed in 1966.
Many residents of the publicly owned complexes have complained about the state of the buildings, with issues such as rodents and mould.
Incinerator shafts in New York City buildings were once used to dispose of trash, which was then burned on site. But they have largely been replaced with trash compactors, which can use the same chutes.
Members of the FDNY and authorities work the scene where a confirmed building collapse transpired at 205 Alexander Avenue in Bronx
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In December 2023, a Bronx apartment building made up of seven stories partially collapsed.
The collapse led to the displacement of over 140 residents but left just two with minor injuries.
Previous inspections on that building had found unsafe conditions.
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