Two people were killed and 17 others injured after a building partially collapsed in Brooklyn, New York, on Wednesday afternoon, with rescue crews continuing to search the rubble for anyone who may still be trapped, officials said.
The collapse happened shortly after 4 p.m. near Bedford Avenue and Flatbush Avenue in the Flatbush neighborhood. More than 150 firefighters and multiple emergency response teams rushed to the scene, launching a major technical rescue operation. Search dogs were also brought in to help locate possible victims.
Officials said 7 children were among the 17 injured, while 4 people suffered critical injuries. One firefighter was also hurt, according to officials. Rescuers pulled a pregnant woman from the rubble and transported her to a hospital. She was responsive and able to move her arms when crews reached her.
Authorities warned that the casualty figures could change as rescue work continues. Officials also said they do not yet know how many people may be missing.
Fire crews are taking measures to prevent a secondary collapse, which officials described as a major concern during the operation. Teams are working to stabilize the structure while continuing to search the debris.
Officials said construction workers were excavating a site next to the building when the collapse occurred. The cause has not been determined, and the NYC Department of Buildings is investigating.
New York City’s Office of Emergency Management urged residents and drivers to avoid the area. Flatbush Avenue was closed between Clarendon Road and Bedford Avenue as emergency operations continued.