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MASPETH, Queens County, N.Y., Oct. 23, 2026 — A 6-year-old girl was injured on Thursday night, October 22, when bricks fell from the side of a building near 59-01 Maspeth Avenue in Maspeth, New York. She suffered a head laceration and a broken leg and was taken to a hospital, where she was reported in stable condition.
According to a family friend, the building belongs to the child's family and was undergoing construction. The friend said the girl was looking through an opening in the structure to wave at her father, who was reportedly at the site, when a section of the brick facade gave way. The piece that fell has been described as about 4 feet by 3 feet.
The girl's mother said she was unloading groceries nearby when she heard her daughter scream, and the father reportedly witnessed the collapse from behind a fence. The mother described the fallen brick as heavy and said her daughter had been at the property daily because the family lives there. The girl is expected to have surgery on her leg.
The city's Department of Buildings responded to the scene and is investigating. Inspectors were seen photographing the building, and the agency issued a violation to the property owner for failure to maintain the structure. Police officers reportedly searched the sidewalk with flashlights as part of the effort to determine what caused the debris to fall.
The investigation into the collapse remains open, and no further details have been released.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Accidents in Maspeth, NY
This incident happened on Maspeth Avenue in Maspeth, NY. We cover accidents across Queens County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Queens County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What usually causes falling debris or building collapse accidents?
These incidents are usually linked to poor maintenance, ongoing construction work, weather damage, or structural wear that isn't caught and repaired in time.
Who can be held responsible when a building's facade or structure fails?
Responsibility can depend on who owns, manages, or was performing work on the property, and whether code violations or neglected repairs played a role. That's typically determined through a formal investigation.
What should someone do if they're hurt by falling debris on a property?
Get medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, and report the incident to local building or code enforcement officials so it can be documented and investigated.
What to Do After a Falling Debris Accident in Maspeth, NY
If you or a loved one is struck by falling material from a building, get medical care immediately; injuries like fractures or head wounds can be more serious than they first appear. Take photos of the scene and the debris if it's safe to do so, and note the time and conditions. Reporting the incident to the city's buildings department helps ensure the property is inspected, and any hazards are addressed. Keep records of medical treatment and any communication with officials, as these details can matter later for insurance or municipal follow-up.
