A section of a vacant commercial building collapsed onto scaffolding and the surrounding sidewalk Monday afternoon in the Morris Heights neighborhood of the Bronx, prompting a rapid emergency response but resulting in no reported injuries.

The incident occurred around 3 p.m. at 57 East Burnside Avenue, where a permitted demolition project was underway. According to the Fire Department of New York, an approximately 150-foot section of an exterior wall gave way and fell onto a sidewalk shed below, scattering debris an estimated 15 feet into the street and pedestrian area.

FDNY units, including Engine 75 and Ladder 33, arrived on scene and initiated an immediate search. Battalion Chief Christopher Ganci confirmed that rescue and squad teams thoroughly checked the site and determined there were no victims and no missing personnel. Once the area was stabilized and secured, control of the scene was transferred to the Department of Buildings and the city’s Office of Emergency Management.

City records indicate the demolition site had been under a stop-work order since January 7 due to previously identified safety violations, raising questions about oversight and compliance. Inspectors from the Department of Buildings were dispatched to evaluate the remaining structure and assess whether additional hazards were present.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and City Council Member Pierina Sanchez coordinated with emergency responders and city agencies following the collapse, while street closures were put in place to ensure public safety. Community members and local advocates, including housing activist Andre Easton, voiced concerns about aging infrastructure and enforcement lapses, particularly in neighborhoods with older building stock.

Despite the dramatic collapse and extensive debris field, officials emphasized that the lack of injuries was a fortunate outcome. The Department of Buildings has opened an investigation into the incident as cleanup continues and the surrounding area remains restricted pending further inspection.