Flatbush Collapse Probe Examines Nearby Construction

Investigators are looking into demolition and construction work at a neighboring Bedford Avenue site as they search for the cause of the collapse at 1321 Flatbush Ave. The 96-year-old building came down on November 11, killing people and injuring at least 17. Debris from the collapse and the adjacent site is being examined as the investigation continues.

The neighboring site had previously held a commercial building, which has since been demolished. Plans for the property show a mixed-use development with retail space, medical services and apartments. A construction safety expert said excavation near older buildings can raise stability concerns, including questions about the walls and supports used to hold back the sides of a construction pit. He has not examined the site.

Department of Buildings records show officials issued a citation in April concerning work at the site, where a stop-work order was allegedly violated and later resolved. No building violations were found for the collapsed building. The contractor who received the citation said the company performed demolition work and had departed the site near the end of April or start of May; he said he did not know of any problem with the supports. Investigators are continuing their work, and the expert said the city needs to establish what happened and whether rules should change.