Cybersecdn– In a startling discovery, an inspection conducted in Richmond Hill, Queens, unveiled an alarming situation wherein 87 individuals were found residing in a basement at the address 132-03 Liberty Ave. The inspection, prompted by a 311 call, was carried out by the FDNY, who encountered densely packed living conditions upon entering the premises. Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident during a subsequent news conference, shedding light on the city’s response to the discovery.
The individuals discovered in the basement were later transferred to a migrant shelter located in the Bronx, as confirmed by sources familiar with the situation. The transportation of these individuals to the shelter underscores the immediate need for suitable living arrangements and support services.
Further investigation revealed that the basement’s living conditions were not only overcrowded but also potentially hazardous, prompting the Department of Buildings to issue a vacate order for the premises. Among the safety concerns cited were fire hazards and inadequate living space, highlighting the urgency of addressing the situation.
The building’s owner, identified as 47-year-old Ebou Sarr, disclosed to local media outlets that he had been charging the migrants a monthly fee of $300 for accommodation. Sarr, who reportedly provided meals to the occupants, clarified that most of the individuals were of Senegalese descent.
The discovery of such a large number of individuals living in substandard conditions underscores broader issues related to housing affordability and availability in urban areas. While the city has acknowledged the housing shortage contributing to such circumstances, questions have arisen regarding the adequacy of existing support systems for vulnerable populations.
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As the investigation continues and efforts are made to address the immediate needs of the affected individuals, there is a growing call for comprehensive solutions to address the underlying issues of housing insecurity and inadequate living conditions faced by many in urban centers.