Collapse risk alarm in Manhattan, 38-story tower evacuated after structural damage

On Tuesday morning, a 38-story building in Midtown Manhattan was emptied after authorities warned of a possible collapse risk due to serious structural damage.

The emergency alert reached the New York Fire Department (FDNY) shortly before 8:00 a.m., when bricks began falling from the building at 235 East 42nd Street, near Grand Central Terminal. The building, which previously served as the headquarters of pharmaceutical company Pfizer, is currently being converted into a residential complex with more than 1,600 apartments, with the project expected to be completed in 2027.

According to the Department of Buildings, a safety official reported that a metal beam on the 21st floor had sustained major damage. Meanwhile, the FDNY said that two supporting columns inside the building had started to bend, while signs of settling had been observed on some of the upper floors.

After the alarm was raised, all workers were immediately evacuated from the building. As a precaution, authorities also ordered people to leave two neighboring buildings at 225 and 221 East 43rd Street.

Engineers from the New York City Department of Buildings went to the scene to carry out the necessary inspections of the building’s structural stability.

As part of the safety measures, hotels, shops, and apartments in the surrounding area were also evacuated, while several streets were closed to traffic. Authorities urged drivers to avoid this part of the city and use alternative routes until the inspections are completed and all danger has been removed.