A devastating building collapse in Brooklyn’s Flatbush neighborhood has tragically left at least eight people dead and 17 injured, according to city officials, prompting an extensive emergency response and significant disruptions throughout the surrounding area.
The three-story building at 1321 Flatbush Avenue collapsed shortly after 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11, falling into an excavation pit at a neighboring construction site. Emergency crews have continued searching through the rubble, with hundreds of firefighters and other first responders involved in the operation.
As the city responds to the tragedy, residents and commuters should be aware of several local disruptions, including road closures, bus detours and temporary water service interruptions. Here’s what to know, including where displaced residents can find assistance and how New Yorkers can help those affected.
Which streets are closed in Brooklyn?
As of Thursday morning, November 12, the following closures have been reported:
- Flatbush Avenue: Closed between Farragut Road and Clarendon Road.
- Newkirk Avenue: Multiple sections of the surrounding street network are affected by closures.
- Foster Avenue: Closures and access restrictions have also been reported.
The NYPD has asked the public to avoid the area surrounding Flatbush and Bedford avenues.
Which buses are affected by the building collapse?
The MTA has implemented several bus detours in response to the emergency activity around Flatbush and Bedford avenues. Affected routes include:
- B41: Detours in both directions, with some Flatbush Avenue stops temporarily skipped.
- B49: Detours in both directions, with buses rerouted via Farragut Road and other nearby streets.
- B8: Detours in both directions, with some stops along Foster Avenue affected.
- B103: Rerouted via Ocean Avenue and Farragut Avenue.
- BM2: Also detoured in both directions.
Are nearby residents experiencing water outages?
The city’s Department of Environmental Protection temporarily shut down water mains near the collapse site to facilitate ongoing emergency operations. According to city officials, approximately 100 buildings have been affected by the temporary water interruption, but as of noon, it has been largely restored.
Residents in the surrounding area should check for updated information about their building’s water service and follow any instructions provided by city agencies, including contacting 311.
Where can displaced residents get help?
New York City Emergency Management and the American Red Cross have opened a reception center for people affected by the collapse.
Flatbush YMCA
- Address: 1401 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn
- Assistance: Food, clothing, health resources and mental health support.
- Organization: NYC Emergency Management and the American Red Cross.
The center is intended to help residents who have been displaced and are not currently hospitalized. The Red Cross has also been registering affected households for assistance.
At least eight households were displaced following the collapse, including residents of the collapsed building and a neighboring property that sustained significant damage.
Anyone directly affected who needs assistance can also contact NYC311 for additional information.
How can New Yorkers help those affected?
New Yorkers looking to support families and neighbors affected by the devastating building collapse in Flatbush, Brooklyn, can make a donation through the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City.
To contribute, visit the Mayor’s Fund donation page and select “Emergency Relief Fund” from the dropdown menu. Donations will help support fellow New Yorkers affected by the tragedy.
The Mayor’s Office has also thanked everyone who has stepped up to help their neighbors during this difficult time.
Additional avenues to donate:
Gofundme for the family of José Luis Caguana
Here are a few additional ways to help:
- Support the American Red Cross: The organization is working alongside NYC Emergency Management to assist displaced households. Contact the Red Cross to learn about current needs and available ways to contribute.
- Share verified information: Pass along confirmed updates about the reception center, available assistance and official resources rather than unverified reports or speculation.
- Check on neighbors: Residents with connections to the affected community can offer practical support, particularly to neighbors who may have been displaced.
- Respect emergency operations: Avoid visiting the collapse site or entering restricted areas. Keeping streets accessible allows firefighters, medical personnel and other emergency workers to continue their work.
Anyone looking to donate should check directly with established relief organizations for their current needs rather than sending money through unverified fundraising links.
How to report a missing loved one after the collapse
Our thoughts are with anyone in this devastating situation. To help, New York City has activated its Unified Victim Identification System (UVIS) following the incident. Anyone concerned about someone who may have been affected and who cannot reach them is encouraged to call 311.
Those calling from outside New York City can reach the system at 212-639-9675. For immediate emergencies, call 911.
Where to find the latest updates
This remains a developing situation, and road closures, public transportation detours and available assistance may change as emergency operations continue.
New Yorkers can monitor the following resources:
- NYC Emergency Management and Notify NYC.
- MTA service alerts.
- NYC Department of Environmental Protection.
- NYC311.
- American Red Cross.
Our hearts are with everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy, their loved ones, and the entire Flatbush community. We’re thinking of the families who are navigating an incredibly difficult time, as well as the first responders and neighbors who have come together to support one another. May those impacted find comfort, strength, and support in the days ahead.
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