Shocking footage circulating online shows a partially collapsed skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, where five floors appear to have buckled — with visible sagging between the 21st and 22nd levels. The 38-story building, formerly Pfizer’s global headquarters at 235 East 42nd Street near Grand Central Terminal and the United Nations, is currently undergoing one of New York City’s largest office-to-residential conversions.
Structural Failure Raises Collapse Fears
According to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a critical structural column buckled on the 21st floor, triggering further instability. Hours later, engineers confirmed additional damage, including bent steel beams and visibly leaning floors between the 21st and 26th levels. ‘The building remains unstable,’ Mamdani stated during a press briefing on Tuesday afternoon. ‘This is an extremely serious situation.’
Emergency Response Underway
After bricks began falling onto the street, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) responded immediately. Approximately 40 units, 130 firefighters, and medical personnel were deployed. Nearby streets were evacuated as authorities cordoned off the area for public safety.
Massive Redevelopment Project Under Scrutiny
The redevelopment — backed by a $720 million construction loan from Madison Realty Capital — aims to add over a dozen new floors atop the 1970s-era structure, transforming it into a residential complex with more than 1,600 apartments. The project is led by developers Nathan Berman’s Metro Loft and David Werner.
No Injuries Reported
An on-site worker captured video inside the building moments before the collapse, showing severely buckled columns and warped silver support beams. All construction workers were safely evacuated, and no injuries have been reported.
Footage from ground level shows chaos as commuters navigate sudden street closures, while aerial and interior videos continue to circulate across social media platforms.