Residents displaced, emergency crews on scene
City officials say part of a high-rise public housing building in the South Bronx gave way Wednesday morning after an explosion tore through its boiler and chimney shaft. The incident took place at the Mitchel Houses on Alexander Avenue, a 20-story complex run by the New York City Housing Authority. Firefighters and inspectors quickly surrounded the site as debris littered the streets below.
Streets closed, tenants relocated
Bricks and concrete crashed onto sidewalks, a playground, and nearby roads, but authorities reported that no one was hurt. Several households were moved out of their apartments while the Department of Buildings carried out safety checks. Con Edison cut off gas service to prevent further risk, and officials said arrangements were being made for displaced tenants to stay elsewhere temporarily.
Cause under review by investigators
While the precise cause of the blast has not yet been determined, investigators are examining whether a gas leak inside the heating system may have been responsible. Engineers are now reviewing records of past inspections and maintenance work on the tower. City leaders have promised a thorough investigation and urged residents to stay clear of the area until emergency operations are complete.
