Gas Explosion in Bronx High-Rise Linked to Stove Theft
A tragic gas explosion that occurred last weekend in a high-rise located in New York City’s Bronx borough has been attributed to an intruder who allegedly disconnected a stove with the intent to steal and sell it, according to statements made by prosecutors on Thursday.
The accused, Samuel Calderon, is currently being detained without the possibility of bail following his arraignment on charges including murder and burglary. The explosion, which took place just after midnight on Saturday, resulted in flames bursting through the windows of the apartment building.
The blast claimed the life of 60-year-old resident Ronald McAllister and left over a dozen individuals injured. As the fire raged, some occupants were seen leaning out of their windows, calling for help amid the cold night air.
Calderon’s legal representatives have not offered any comments, and there has been no immediate contact with any of his relatives. Authorities have identified the 55-year-old as homeless.
According to a criminal court complaint, Calderon admitted to police that he entered the apartment of a woman he had previously been involved with. A court order issued in October had prohibited him from approaching her home.
The complaint detailed how Calderon allegedly intended to sell the woman’s gas stove to fund a purchase of crack cocaine. He reportedly dismantled the stove and gas line from the wall. Sensing the gas leak, he attempted to mitigate it by wrapping a blanket around the opening before leaving with the stove.
As noted in the complaint, the gas ascended to the top floors of the 17-story building. Firefighters were examining reports of a gas smell on the 15th and 16th floors when the explosion occurred.
The explosion led to the collapse of the 16th-floor ceiling, which tragically resulted in McAllister’s death.
The incident forced the evacuation of the 148-apartment building, which was formerly public housing and is now under private management. As of Thursday, the building remains uninhabitable while repairs are underway, as stated by the city’s Buildings Department. Discussions between officials and management are ongoing regarding the safe return of residents to parts of the building, located on Bivona Street.
The Red Cross has reported that over 350 residents from the affected tower have registered for emergency aid.
