In the morning of Wednesday, October 1, 2025, an explosion ripped through the Mitchel Houses public housing complex in Mott Haven, Bronx, leaving a 20-story brick chimney structure—anchored to one corner of the building—largely obliterated and sending debris raining into streets, playgrounds, and adjacent property. Despite the dramatic damage, officials confirmed no injuries or fatalities .

Chronology of the Blast

The explosion struck shortly after 8 a.m., when many residents remained at home.

The blast emanated from or near the boiler room / ventilation / incinerator shaft of the building. That vertical shaft, which ran up the side of the structure, was sheared off—creating a massive gash along the building’s edge.

Bricks, mortar, window units, and other material rained down, bu

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