The death toll from the collapse of a three-story building in Brooklyn’s Flatbush neighborhood rose to five on Thursday, as emergency crews continued searching the wreckage for potential victims, according to the Associated Press.
Firefighters recovered three additional bodies overnight after the building collapsed Wednesday afternoon beside an active construction site. At least 17 people were hospitalized, including four in critical condition.
The collapse occurred near Flatbush and Bedford avenues, where workers had been excavating a neighboring lot. Much of the building’s debris fell into the construction pit. Authorities have not determined the cause or established whether the excavation contributed to the collapse.
Emergency responders worked through unstable debris, using search dogs and specialized equipment to reach spaces where people might remain trapped. Several survivors were pulled from the wreckage during the rescue operation.
An adjoining building remained standing, but damage to its wall exposed apartment interiors. City building inspectors were assessing the structural stability of surrounding properties while assisting emergency crews at the scene.
Police urged residents and motorists to avoid the surrounding area because of street closures and emergency activity. A reception center was established at the Flatbush YMCA to assist affected residents.
