QUEENS, NY — A major cleanup effort is underway after the facade of a furniture store collapsed in the Bellerose section of Queens, injuring three people, including two children. The incident occurred suddenly, sending debris crashing to the sidewalk and sparking panic among bystanders.

Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene and transported the injured to a nearby hospital. Thankfully, all three victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

“It could have been a lot worse,” said one witness. “There were families walking by just moments before it happened.”

The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, and building inspectors are evaluating the structural integrity of the rest of the property. Officials have not confirmed whether prior complaints or violations were associated with the building.

Cleanup crews worked through the day to remove fallen bricks, metal, and glass from the sidewalk and storefront, as local businesses nearby reopened with caution.