Man Charged with Murder Following Bronx High-Rise Gas Explosion
Prosecutors have announced that a deadly gas explosion in a Bronx high-rise last weekend has been linked to an intruder who allegedly disconnected a stove to steal and sell it. The suspect, identified as Samuel Calderon, is now facing serious charges including murder and burglary in connection with the devastating incident.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The explosion occurred shortly after midnight on Saturday, sending flames surging through the windows of the apartment building located on Bivona Street in the eastern part of the Bronx. The blast resulted in the tragic death of 60-year-old resident Ronald McAllister, while more than a dozen other individuals sustained injuries. In the chaotic aftermath, some occupants were seen leaning out of windows, desperately yelling for help into the frigid night air.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Samuel Calderon, 55, was arraigned on Thursday and is being held without bail. According to a criminal court complaint, Calderon admitted to police that he entered a 13th-floor apartment belonging to a woman with whom he had a previous relationship. Notably, a court had issued an order in October requiring him to stay away from her home. The complaint further alleges that Calderon's intention was to steal the woman's gas stove, sell it, and use the proceeds to purchase crack cocaine.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Explosion
The court document outlines a harrowing sequence of events. Calderon reportedly pulled the gas stove and its connected gas line out of the wall. Upon realising the gas was leaking, he attempted to seal the hole in the gas line with a blanket and tape before leaving the apartment with the stolen appliance. The complaint states that the leaked gas subsequently travelled upwards to the top of the 17-story building.
Officials confirmed that firefighters were already on-site at the time of the explosion, investigating reports of a gas odour on the 15th and 16th floors. The force of the blast caused the 16th-floor ceiling to collapse onto Ronald McAllister, resulting in his death.
Aftermath and Ongoing Impact
The 148-apartment building, a former public housing tower now under private management, required the immediate evacuation of all residents. As of Thursday, the structure remained off-limits while repair work continued, according to the city Buildings Department. Officials and building management are currently in discussions regarding when residents might safely return to at least portions of the high-rise.
The American Red Cross reported that over 350 residents from the damaged tower have registered for emergency assistance in the wake of the disaster. Calderon, described by police as homeless, has legal representation, but his lawyers declined to comment on Thursday. Immediate contact information for any of his relatives could not be found.
