Why It Matters
A three-story building collapse in Flatbush, Brooklyn, killed at least one person and injured 10 others Wednesday afternoon. Four of the injured people were seriously hurt, and a child was among those injured.
What Happened
The building came down at about 4 p.m. It contained a ground-floor store and at least one apartment above it.
Firefighters pulled one victim from the rubble. First responders used drones and flashlights while searching the debris for people who might still be trapped.
A construction site stood next to the collapsed building. The New York City Department of Buildings is investigating at the scene.
By the Numbers
- Three stories: height of the collapsed building
- At least one: reported death
- 10: people injured
- Four: people seriously injured
- $10,000: penalties paid by a demolition contractor
Investigation
A demolition contractor was cited for continuing work despite an order to stop. The violation was resolved in October, and the contractor paid $10,000 in penalties.
New York City Council member Farah N. Louis said, “Imagine what that child is experiencing right now.” New York State Rep. Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said the lot had been vacant for a long time.
What’s Next
City building officials are continuing their investigation at the collapse site. NYC Emergency Management established a Red Cross help center for Flatbush residents affected by the collapse.
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