Authorities are investigating a ceiling collapse at an IHOP restaurant in the Flatlands neighborhood of Brooklyn that left nine people with minor injuries.
Incident Details
The ceiling partially gave way during regular dining hours, causing debris to fall on customers seated inside. Emergency medical teams responded quickly, treating those injured for cuts and bruises. Officials confirmed that all injuries were minor and that no lives were in danger.
Eyewitnesses reported that the collapse happened suddenly, with diners scrambling to evacuate. One customer described the scene as “a loud crack followed by falling debris,” adding that panic spread quickly through the restaurant.
Official Response
Inspectors from the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) were dispatched immediately. After assessing the site, the agency ordered the restaurant to close until further notice and issued a violation to the property owner for unsafe structural conditions.
In a statement, the DOB stressed the importance of safety compliance:
“Businesses cannot operate when structural risks threaten public safety. This location will remain closed until all repairs and inspections are complete.”
Community Impact
The Flatlands IHOP is a well-known gathering place for local families and late-night diners. Its closure is expected to affect regular patrons for an extended period, depending on how quickly repairs are carried out and safety standards are met.
Residents expressed concern about building oversight, with some calling for stricter inspections to prevent future incidents.
Next Steps
Management of the restaurant has yet to issue a formal comment but is reportedly cooperating with city officials to address the violations. Customers are being directed to nearby IHOP branches in Brooklyn and Queens while the Flatlands location remains closed.
City authorities reiterated their call for property owners to ensure buildings are properly maintained and compliant with safety regulations to avoid similar events.