Porch Collapse in Boston Injures Nine, Spurs Safety Fears

A third-floor porch collapsed during a large gathering at a multifamily home on Harwood Street in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood around 10 p.m. Friday, injuring nine adults, with at least three in critical condition. The severity of injuries was compounded by a secondary collapse involving heavy objects, such as a refrigerator. Emergency crews from Boston Fire, EMS, and police responded quickly, and the cause remains under investigation by local authorities and inspectional services. Officials noted that building age, maintenance, and the weight of stored materials may have contributed to the collapse. Separately, three people, including an elderly woman, were injured in a roof collapse at a neglected building in Jamshedpur, India, underscoring concerns about structural safety in older or poorly maintained properties. Both incidents have prompted renewed scrutiny of building safety standards.