Power Outage Affects Two Buildings; High CO Levels Force Evacuation at 51 Ross Street

Description

Late Saturday night, a manhole fire triggered a major emergency at NYCHA’s Taylor-Wythe Houses, knocking out power to both 51 Ross Street and 611 Wythe Place. The fire damaged wiring inside the buildings, including in the boiler room at 51 Ross Street, causing dangerously high carbon monoxide readings — approximately 800 parts per million — in that building alone. Hatzolah, FDNY, EMS, the NYPD’s 90th Precinct, and Williamsburg Shomrim responded to the scene. Approximately 50 residents were evacuated from 51 Ross Street and checked for carbon monoxide inhalation. EMS transported one female to the hospital for evaluation. Williamsburg Chavrim deployed a light tower to assist emergency crews as they worked through the night. Firefighters and other personnel conducted floor-by-floor checks to ensure residents’ safety and ventilated the building to bring down CO levels. While 611 Wythe Place is also without power, no elevated CO levels have been reported there. UJO of Williamsburg confirmed that NYCHA’s Emergency Services team is on-site with Con Edison and FDNY to assist in restoring power. NYC Emergency Management has activated its emergency control center to coordinate resources. Utility crews are working to repair the damage and restore service to both buildings. The incident remains under investigation.