What happened
An early-morning explosion rocked a Bronx high-rise, collapsing the entire side of the 20-story Mitchel Houses building. The incident, reported around 8:10 a.m. on Wednesday, left a gaping hole along Alexander Avenue in the Mott Haven section. Videos and eyewitness accounts described bricks, air conditioning units and other debris raining down onto nearby streets, sidewalks and adjacent structures. Authorities indicated that a gas-related incident may have triggered the collapse, with officials noting the ventilation shaft connected to the boiler likely involved in the damage.
As the scene unfolded, observers reported hearing a loud blast followed by a rapid structural failure. One witness recalled seeing smoke after dropping their kids off at school, while others described portions of windows and units being torn from their frames. Initial assessments suggested the incident originated in the building’s chimney or boiler room area, with the incinerator shaft collapse playing a central role in the event.
Response from authorities
The Fire Department and other agencies responded immediately, deploying firefighters, drones and search dogs as a precaution to ensure no one remained trapped beneath the rubble. FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker indicated that investigators would determine the exact cause, with fire marshals, the NYPD and other partners coordinating the inquiry. He emphasized that, while the scene was dangerous, there were no reported injuries at the time of the update.
Mayor Eric Adams joined officials at the scene for a live update, stressing the city’s emphasis on resident safety. “We are extremely fortunate, at this time, we have no loss of life or no injuries,” the mayor said, noting that the investigation would proceed to determine what contributed to the collapse and to assess structural integrity in the surrounding wings of the complex.
Building and community context
Mitchel Houses is a large NYCHA complex that, according to recent data, houses roughly 3,500 residents across 1,730 units in 10 residential buildings. Completed in 1966, the complex spans two city blocks from East 135th to 137th streets. Wednesday’s blast sent bricks and debris onto nearby properties and caused a water surge at one point, suggesting damaged underground utilities.
In the wake of the collapse, some apartments in the F and G wings were evacuated as a precaution. Gas service to the entire complex was shut off, and inspectors were tasked with confirming the structural soundness of the affected wings before residents could return. Officials stressed that safety remains the priority while the broader area begins to recover from the disruption.
Emergency measures and community support
The Multijurisdictional response included coordination between the FDNY, NYPD, the Office of Emergency Management, the Department of Buildings, NYCHA and Con Edison. The American Red Cross established a support center for Mitchel Houses residents at the Mitchel Community Center on Alexander Ave to provide shelter, information and essential services as needed.
Nearby streets remained closed, and traffic experienced significant delays as crews cleared debris and conducted safety assessments. Officials urged residents and visitors to follow official advisories and to check for updates as the situation evolved and the investigation continued.
What comes next
Investigators will analyze the incident to determine its precise cause and to assess the long-term stability of the building. In the interim, emergency crews will maintain a vigilant watch over the affected area, ensure that no hazardous conditions persist, and coordinate with NYCHA to plan any necessary remediation or temporary housing moves for residents displaced by the event.
Eyewitness perspectives
Residents and bystanders described a sudden, overwhelming blast that appeared to tear through the building’s side. One witness noted that a neighbor’s window fell on the 16th floor, underscoring the dramatic and dangerous nature of the collapse. Firefighters and city officials reiterated that while the scene is dangerous, the immediate priority is safeguarding residents and confirming the structure’s safety before any return to affected units.
Stay informed
City agencies will issue ongoing updates as more information becomes available. Red Cross and NYCHA representatives will remain on-site to assist residents, while police and fire crews continue investigations and structural assessments. Check back for the latest developments on this developing story.
