Safety Alarms Raised as Bricks Fall from Fire-Damaged St. Ann’s School in Buffalo

Residents living near the former St. Ann’s school on Buffalo’s East Side are sounding the alarm after witnessing structural debris descending from the building’s charred remains. A local homeowner first reported seeing masonry dislodging from the facade, raising concerns about the deteriorating state of the structure. This latest development follows a massive four-alarm fire that gutted the vacant building in January, requiring an extensive response from Western New York fire crews.

The Battle Over Demolition Costs

In the wake of the fire, Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan has maintained a firm stance on the property’s future. During recent press briefings, Mayor Ryan emphasized that the financial responsibility for clearing the site should not fall on the taxpayers. The city has estimated the demolition cost at approximately $1 million, a burden the Mayor insists must be borne entirely by the property owner.

Community Apprehension Grows

Visual inspections of the site confirm the growing fears of the neighborhood. Recent observations show bricks scattered across the perimeter, with significant portions of the exterior walls visibly pulling away from the building’s main frame. Verna Sanders, a local resident, voiced her frustration with the lack of progress, noting that the standing ruins pose a continuous threat to the community.

“Why can’t the city tear this building down, bill that person, and not allow them to buy another home in this city until that bill is paid?” Sanders questioned, highlighting the urgent need for city intervention rather than awaiting action from the private owners.

Official City Response

The Buffalo Fire Department has acknowledged the reports of falling masonry but maintains that, for now, the debris has remained within the secured, fenced-off area. According to department officials, there is no immediate risk to public transit or pedestrian safety outside the perimeter. An inspector from the Department of Permit and Inspection Services is reportedly conducting weekly site visits and remains in contact with the owner.

Despite the regular checks, the City of Buffalo has yet to provide a definitive timeline for when the structure will be leveled. As the community waits for a resolution, the Lake Erie Times will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates on the safety of our neighborhood streets.

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