Building Collapses In New York City, 12 Injured

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says preliminary evidence indicates that the blast and building collapse in the East Village is due to a gas-related explosion.

Firefighters are still trying to tackle a seven-alarm blaze triggered by the blast. De Blasio confirmed reports that there are 12 people who are injured, including three people who are in critical condition. He added there are no reports of anyone missing.

New York City utility Con Edison says its inspectors had visited a lower Manhattan building on Thursday, about an hour before the explosion and 7-alarm fire. The fire spread to other buildings, including one at risk of falling. More than 200 firefighters were dispatched.