A significant structural failure occurred in Manhattan, warranting a substantial response from the New York City Fire Department. The incident involved columns buckling and the collapse of five floors within a 37-story building under construction at 235 East 42nd Street. This event transpired on Tuesday morning, as reported by Mayor Zohran Mamdani in a press conference.

The call regarding falling bricks came in at 7:57 a.m., as confirmed by FDNY. The floors that experienced collapse ranged from the 21st to the 26th floors. Additionally, structural issues such as multiple cracks and sagging were observed throughout the building. This site was formerly the global headquarters of Pfizer and is currently being repurposed into residential units as part of a permitted construction project.

Mayor Mamdani noted ongoing structural movements in a compromised column. Collaborative efforts between first responders, structural engineers, and the project’s engineer are aimed at stabilizing the impacted floor. He underscored the severity of the situation.

Second Avenue and East 42nd Street have been closed, while tape has been placed on East 43rd Street to secure the area. Nearby buildings, including the construction site, were evacuated, yet no injuries were reported among workers or civilians.

“The general contractor chose to go non-union for this project. All we want is responsible construction in the City of New York,” stated Cliff Johnson from Steamfitters Local 638. His members were working inside when the structure began failing. Johnson criticized the contractor’s failure to adequately shore up the construction, noting crumbling beams and floors.

The renovation was part of a plan to gut the existing 33-story structure and expand it by adding 16 stories. This incident disrupted commute in Midtown, affecting street traffic and transit routes. Bus services across several lines experienced detours or delays.

A nearby school housing about 400 students was evacuated, along with several tall buildings in the vicinity. Fortunately, no injuries were reported and all workers were accounted for. City inspectors are investigating the site and advising commuters to steer clear of the area.

In 2025, building records show seven OATH violations related to construction safety at this location. These violations amounted to penalties exceeding $32,000, including a notable $10,000 penalty for an unreported construction incident resulting in injury. All violations have since been resolved.

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