Overhang collapse caught on video in Miami, demolition expected
A building overhang collapsed onto a busy Miami street Wednesday afternoon, narrowly missing a pedestrian and several cars, according to eyewitness accounts and city officials. The incident remains under investigation.
Cameras capture close call
David Soto, who works at GS Arte paint and body shop on NW 7th Avenue, said his surveillance cameras captured the exact moment the structure gave way.
"There was a man walking by on the sidewalk and then as soon as the man just passed by, the roof of the building that's across the street — the roof just collapsed," Soto told CBS News Miami.
"It was like a train but kind of like a fast roaring sound," he added.
Video from the scene shows vehicles driving past the building just seconds before the collapse. One driver is seen swerving to avoid the falling debris.
"He missed it by milliseconds, it was really close," Soto said.
No injuries reported, demolition planned
Miami Fire Rescue said the overhang collapse occurred around 4:25 p.m. at a commercial building located at 3127 NW 7th Avenue. The department's Technical Rescue Team responded and confirmed there were no trapped victims.
Fire officials said the building sustained additional structural damage and may be demolished within a week. A residence at the rear of the building was evacuated as a precaution, though officials later cleared the family to return.
City of Miami Commissioner Miguel Angel Gabela visited the scene and remarked, "The building looks like it's in disrepair — I understand that it may have had safety violations already."
Cleanup efforts were underway, with Miami Police and Florida Power & Light assisting in securing the area.
