Rescue operations for victims of the recent building collapse in Brooklyn have been halted, with officials confirming that eight individuals have died as a result of the incident. The collapse occurred on Wednesday at approximately 4 p.m. at 1321 Flatbush Avenue, impacting both the building and a nearby construction site.
Among the deceased are two young cousins, aged 9 and 10, as well as construction workers from Ecuador and Guatemala, and a food delivery worker from Guinea. According to an internal police report and family accounts, six victims were killed instantly at the scene, while two others initially rescued succumbed to their injuries at local hospitals, according to Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
By Thursday afternoon, rescue efforts had been officially suspended after fire officials determined that no further victims were trapped in the rubble. “This has been a devastating evening and morning for our city,” Mayor Mamdani stated during a press conference.
In total, 18 people were reported injured, including firefighters who responded to the scene. Investigators have yet to determine the specific cause of the collapse.
The victims have been identified as:
- Nicole Daniela Salvala Rodriguez, age 9
- Kevin Santiago Reyes Gonzalez, 10
- Juan Daniel Salvada Guzman, 31
- John Doe, estimated between 30-35 years old
- Edgar Santiago Sapón Gutierrez, 26
- Mamadou Bhoye Barry, 23
- José Luis Caguana, 26
- Gabriel Siguencia, 22
Family members described the tragic circumstances surrounding several of the victims. Edgar Santiago Sapón Gutierrez, who had migrated from Guatemala three years ago, was working on the site when the building collapsed. His wife and young son were at the scene shortly after hearing about the incident, but tragically, they later learned he had died.
Mamadou Bhoye Barry, also among the deceased, had been preparing for a night shift when the building fell. His cousin, Mamadou Bhoye N’Diaye, is still unaccounted for. Relatives have voiced their frustration over the lack of information from authorities as they await news.
José Luis Caguana, another victim, was known for his dedication as a family man with a pregnant wife and a four-year-old son. Family friends highlighted his love for soccer and his commitment to improving his family’s circumstances in New York.
Gabriel Siguencia, who arrived in New York in March 2025, had recently worked as a carpenter at the construction site. His mother waited overnight for news about him as emergency personnel continued their search.
As investigations continue, local officials are expected to release further information regarding the cause of the collapse and any safety measures that may be implemented moving forward.
