New York: A devastating building collapse in Brooklyn, New York City, has claimed eight lives, including two children, and left 18 others injured. The three-storey building reportedly collapsed, triggering a major emergency response and a comprehensive investigation by city authorities.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed the casualties on Thursday, stating that six people died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries at nearby hospitals.

Among the injured are 14 civilians and four firefighters. The mayor said two construction workers were also among those killed in the tragedy.

Most of the injured patients admitted to hospitals are reported to be in stable condition, although one person remains in critical condition.

Seven Victims Identified

According to a CNN report, seven of the deceased have been identified as Mamadou Barry, 23; Jose Luis Caguana Cosquillo, 26; Kevin Santiago Reyes Gonzalez, 10; Juan Daniel Salvado Guzman, 31; Nicole Daniela Salvala Rodriguez, 9; Edgar Sapon, 26; and Gabriel Siguenza, 22.

The identity of the eighth victim has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Structural Cracks Reportedly Found Before Collapse

The incident has raised serious questions about the structural safety of the building and whether timely preventive measures could have avoided the tragedy.

Preliminary information suggests that an inspection report submitted to the New York City Department of Buildings in March had reportedly mentioned cracks in the exterior structure on the northern side of the building.

Reacting to the report, Mayor Mamdani expressed serious concern over the findings and assured that authorities would investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse thoroughly.

Mayor Orders Comprehensive Investigation

The mayor said the investigation would not be limited to the collapsed building alone. Authorities would also examine other construction sites operated by the individuals and entities associated with the building to determine whether similar safety concerns existed.

The probe is expected to focus on structural integrity, inspection findings and possible lapses in building safety regulations.

The tragic collapse has renewed concerns over construction safety and the enforcement of building inspection standards in New York City.