Senator Serrano Reacts to Tragic East Harlem Building Explosion

Statement from Senator Serrano Regarding Today's Building Explosion at 1644/1646 Park Avenue in East Harlem

"As an elected official representing East Harlem, my thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this morning's horrific and tragic building explosion near 116th Street and Park Avenue in El Barrio. I would like to thank the brave first responders who rushed to the scene quickly after the blast had reduced the two buildings on Park Avenue to rubble.  I commend Mayor Bill de Blasio and his team, as well as City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, for their assistance to the residents of the affected area.

"As the details of the tragedy continue to unfold in the coming days and weeks, it is critically important that we get answers to the very serious questions that this explosion raises. My hope is that a full and thorough investigation ensues to gain clarity as to how this situation was handled, including how gas odor complaints are responded to, and what safeguards are in place to ensure proper follow through in finding the root cause of these odors after a complaint has been made. It is our duty to learn everything we can about what happened today in order to help prevent another tragedy like this from occurring again."

If you are in need of assistance or support, the Greater NY Red Cross is providing emergency services at their Manhattan headquarters located at 520 W. 49th Street and at PS 57 located at 176 E. 115th Street.