Bricks fall from East 42nd Street building, prompting road closure and evacuations
A facade collapse at a Midtown East building caused bricks to fall from the 21st floor, leading to a street closure and evacuations of nearby structures, with no injuries reported.
Firefighters responded to a call just before 8 a.m. on Monday at 235 East 42nd Street after bricks fell from the 21st floor of a building undergoing facade work. The incident prompted the closure of East 42nd Street between Second and Third Avenues while officials investigate. Nearby properties at 225, 221 and 210 East 43rd Street were evacuated as a precaution.
The New York City Department of Buildings is examining reports that a steel beam may have been compromised. A department spokesperson noted that the building is being converted from office space to residential units. Video from the scene showed construction workers and several fire trucks gathered near the site. No injuries were reported.