Three-storey building collapses in New York City

Gym property recently targeted for 'dangerously bulging' foundations

Police and firefighters are on the scene of a three-storey building collapse in Brooklyn, New York.

A building that housed a gym in the Carroll Gardens neighbourhood had collapsed on Wednesday afternoon. One person experienced a minor injury, according to New York Fire Department officials.

The property housed Body Elite Gym, a 36-year-old business that had recently closed for repairs. A partial stop-work order had been issued on 10 June, according to New York City Department of Buildings records.

Records show that a brick wall was "dangerously bulging" over the sidewalk with "no protection" provided. "Respondent to provide sidewalk protection and engineering report immediately."

A gas leak following the collapse prompted firefighters to warn nearby residents to move inside.

The road was blocked off by police as dozens of first responders arrived on the scene. Rubble covered the street as firefighters began surveying the wreckage from a crane.

New York Police Department also deployed dogs and a helicopter to search the area.

Residents had reportedly complained for years about the building's foundations bulging onto the street. In recent weeks, scaffolding had been erected and repairs were underway.

Several fines have been levied against the property's owners over large cracks in the building.

The building collapsed around 4.40pm.

Residents described hearing a boom followed by a plume of dust that engulfed the block.