Yonkers, NY, experienced an unexpected disruption early this morning when a significant rock slide led to the collapse of a building on Saw Mill River Road. The incident, which involved a colossal boulder crashing into the structure at 1256 Saw Mill River Road, fortunately did not result in any injuries, as confirmed by local authorities. CBS News New York reported that the event was discovered around 7 a.m., though it had occurred sometime during the night.
Upon arriving on the scene, Yonkers Fire Department teams conducted a thorough search to ensure there were no occupants in what remained of the collapsed building, a two-story commercial property known as Peterson Tool Rental. "After further investigation, firefighters found that a large boulder had dislodged from the hillside behind the building, striking the structure and causing the collapse," according to a Patch report. The surrounding area was then examined for potential risks to other properties, but officials determined that there was no danger to the public.
The rock slide's aftermath is not only architectural but also environmental. A 500-gallon interior heating oil tank has been compromised, leading to a fuel spill that HazMat units are now working to contain. Measures to handle the spill include the use of absorbent materials and booms, as well as sewer cap covers to prevent any further contamination. The road remains closed between Tompkins Ave. and Rider Ave., and Yonkers Police Department is advising drivers to re-route their travel to avoid the impacted section of Saw Mill River Road between Odell Ave. and Jackson Ave.
The area remains cordoned off with road closures still in place as authorities closely monitor the collapse and ongoing cleanup efforts. Efforts are focused on ensuring safety and minimizing the environmental impact of the incident, though a timeline for reopening the road remains unclear.
