A teenager is in critical condition after a fire at the NYCHA Mitchel Houses in Mott Haven. NYPD says the fire broke out just before 11:30 a.m. at 205 Alexander Ave., and EMS took the 16-year-old to Lincoln Hospital. The cause remains under investigation.
NYCHA manages the largest public-housing portfolio in the country, serving more than 312,000 authorized residents in over 156,000 apartments, and safety failures anywhere in this system can lead to life-changing injuries.
Why NYCHA Fires Keep Happening
Fire risk increases when owners do not maintain self-closing doors, lighting, alarms, and building access. New York City law requires self-closing doors and gives owners only 14 days to correct violations, with HPD re-inspecting shortly after.
Recent oversight findings also flagged gaps in NYCHA fire-safety practices, including missing or ineffective security and fire-guard coverage that can compromise resident safety. NYCHA’s own metrics show slow public-space repairs such as lighting and door issues, which can worsen fire hazards and evacuation safety.
Call a Lawyer Before You File Anything If Time Allows
NYCHA cases follow municipal rules with short, technical deadlines. A lawyer can preserve building video, identify all responsible parties (NYCHA and contractors), and control what is submitted.
- Notice of Claim deadline is 90 days from the incident.
- You may be scheduled for a General Municipal Law 50-h hearing soon after.
- The lawsuit deadline is typically one year and ninety days from the incident, with limited exceptions.
Missing any step can nullify your claim. Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to prepare filings and protect your rights.
Who May Be Liable
Potentially responsible parties can include NYCHA as owner and manager, and private contractors that service doors, alarms, elevators, lighting, and security. Thorough investigations prevent under-recovery.
What To Do After a NYCHA Fire Injury
- Get medical care and follow treatment.
- Photograph the door hardware, hallway and stair conditions, alarms, signage, and smoke patterns.
- Save damaged clothing and keep a log of pain, symptoms, and expenses.
- Collect witness names, apartment numbers, and any complaint or incident numbers.
- Contact an attorney quickly to serve the Notice of Claim, handle the 50-h hearing, and obtain maintenance records.
How The Dearie Law Firm, P.C. Can Help
For more than three decades, our firm has represented New Yorkers injured on NYCHA property. We investigate the scene, send preservation letters, obtain repair and violation histories, prepare you for the 50-h hearing, and litigate for full compensation, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Free Case Review
If you or a family member was injured in a NYCHA fire at the Mitchel Houses or anywhere in the Bronx, contact The Dearie Law Firm, P.C. today. There is limited time to act.
NYCHA Injury Resources
- NYCHA Injury Lawyer
- NYCHA Injury Resource Hub
- NYC Notice Of Claim Deadline
- How To Sue NYCHA (Process)
- Can I Sue For NYCHA Negligence
NYCHA Fire And Explosion Resources