Two workers were trapped when a Queens house under construction in collapsed Friday afternoon, authorities said.
Three workers were inside the house, at 231st Street in Laurelton, when neighbors heard a loud bang and roof and side walls gave way.
One of the workers was able to escape on his own, but the other two had to be rescued, officials said.
Inspectors from the Buildings Department told NBC 4 New York that it appears workers cut through critical support beams holding up the roof and walls. Workers had been tearing down the back wall of the house as they prepared to enlarge it.
Officials are investigating whether the collapse has threatened the stability of the surrounding buildings.
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