what happened in the bronx today

Today in the Bronx, a significant incident occurred involving a partial collapse of a 20-story public housing high-rise on Alexander Avenue in the Mott Haven section. The collapse happened shortly after 8 a.m. due to a gas explosion that caused the incinerator (boiler room) shaft to collapse. This caused the entire side of the building to collapse, leaving a large gaping hole along the exterior. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far. Emergency responders including the FDNY, NYPD, Office of Emergency Management, and Con Edison are on the scene. Residents in nearby apartments are being evacuated as a precaution, and gas supply to the building has been cut off. Officials including Mayor Eric Adams and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson have been involved in the response, emphasizing safety and ongoing investigations to determine the exact cause and accountability. The collapse caused debris to rain onto the street and sidewalks, leading to street closures and traffic delays. The affected building is part of the Mitchel Houses, a NYCHA complex housing roughly 3,500 people. Residents and officials express concerns about safety and infrastructure maintenance in such public housing.