Massive gas explosion causes partial collapse of Mott Haven Bronx NYCHA building

Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News on Oct 1, 2025

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NEW YORK — A massive gas explosion tore the corner off a 20-story Bronx NYCHA apartment building, sending debris raining down to the street below, officials said.

The explosion occurred at about 8:15 a.m. on Alexander Ave. near E. 138th St., which is part of NYCHA’s Mitchel Houses in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx.

The blast destroyed an incinerator shaft running along the corner of the brick building, FDNY officials said.

Images from the scene show the brick façade lining the incinerator shaft completely gone, leaving a deep, jagged gouge running down the corner of the building.

Brick and mortar rained down on a one-story addition to the building, as well as the street below.

Miraculously, no injuries were immediately reported, officials said.

The FDNY, NYPD, office of Emergency Management, Department of Buildings and Con Edison all responded to take part in the investigation, a NYCHA spokeswoman said.

“Early reports are of an explosion in a building chimney,” the spokeswoman said. “Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of this event and the extent of any damage beyond the reported exterior damage to the chimney. Agencies are on site to ensure the safety of residents and the public.”

First responders at the scene requested drones, robots and bomb sniffing dogs to be dispatched to the scene as the investigation continues.

Incinerator shafts in New York City buildings were once used to dispose of trash, which was then burned on site. But they have largely been replaced with trash compactors, which can use the same chutes.

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