Explosion Collapses Shaft at Bronx NYCHA High-Rise

A morning explosion ripped out the side of a 20‑story NYCHA high‑rise at the Mitchel Houses in Mott Haven, Bronx, causing the building's incinerator/ventilation/boiler shaft to collapse and bricks to fall along a vertical scar. Officials reported no injuries; firefighters, police, building inspectors and Con Edison crews used drones, K‑9 teams and rubble searches while evacuating two wings (F and G) and shutting off gas, heat and hot water as a precaution. Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams were briefed, a safety perimeter was established, and a Red Cross reception center opened to assist displaced residents. An investigation is underway into whether a gas leak or other failure triggered the collapse, and city records show recent violations and a partial stop‑work order as inspectors assess the foundation, apartments and overall structural stability.