Queens building owner faces violation after facade collapse injures three
- Approximately 60 feet of the facade at a furniture store in Queens collapsed, injuring three individuals.
- Witnesses reported a loud boom and smoke, leading to immediate public assistance efforts.
- City inspectors have cited the building owner for maintenance failures, resulting in vacate orders for nearby businesses.
On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, around 4:30 p.m., a facade collapsed at a furniture store located on Jericho Turnpike in Queens, New York, injuring three people, including two children. Approximately 60 feet of the facade fell onto the sidewalk and impacted at least two parked vehicles. Local firefighters and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, where they found witnesses trying to assist those affected by the debris. Among the injured were a 25-year-old pedestrian who sustained back injuries, an 11-year-old girl who experienced back pain, and a 13-year-old girl who suffered leg injuries. All three victims were transported to nearby hospitals and were reported to be in stable condition. Witnesses described hearing a loud boom and seeing smoke before rushing to offer assistance during the chaotic moments following the collapse. The westbound side of Jericho Turnpike was subsequently closed while investigations initiated by law enforcement and building inspectors began. In the aftermath, inspectors from the New York City Department of Buildings assessed the situation and issued a violation to the owner of the building for failing to maintain the structure adequately. This action highlights the ongoing issues with construction safety and building maintenance regulations in urban areas. It was noted that the building owner had previously received complaints regarding the building's condition, including reports of holes in the ceiling and floor. It remains unclear whether the earlier complaint correlates with the collapse that took place. As a safety precaution, inspectors mandated that the building owner erect a tight board fence in front of the property to protect pedestrians and passersby from potential further hazards. The incident raises significant concerns over building safety standards and enforcement in New York City, where aging structures are common. Residents and business owners in the nearby Bellerose neighborhood expressed disbelief that such an incident could occur, especially just weeks after the furniture store had opened its doors. The consequences of this facade collapse extend beyond the immediate injuries to the victims, as at least five neighboring businesses were also subjected to vacate orders, emphasizing the potential for economic disruption within the community. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of rigorous safety inspections and comprehensive building maintenance to prevent such tragedies in the future, ensuring that properties are safe for both workers and the general public.