Reading Investigates Building Collapse on North 8th Street

The City of Reading is investigating a partial building collapse that occurred last Saturday (July 5), displacing ten residents. The collapse happened at a three-story building located at North Eighth and Green Streets. The south wall of the building crumbled, covering the sidewalk with debris. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Firefighters responded to the scene at approximately 3:45 p.m., quickly evacuating residents from the rear section of the building and the adjacent property at 503 N. Eighth Street. According to Fire Marshal Jeremy Searfoss, the front portion of the building was unoccupied at the time of the collapse. Utility crews worked to shut off gas and electric services to ensure safety.

The building's owner, Windsor Way Holdings LLC, is coordinating with the city’s emergency demolition contractor, Empire Services, to dismantle the damaged section. The city’s primary concern is to prevent further collapse and ensure public safety. The remaining intact portion of the building will be assessed by the property owner and their insurance company.

The building, previously occupied by a beauty salon, has not been well-maintained, though no specific code violations were documented before the incident. The cause of the collapse remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. North 8th Street remains closed to traffic in the affected area.