BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Jefferson Avenue, between E. Delavan Avenue and Florida Street, is currently closed after a chimney collapse at Canisius University's Health Science Building on Sunday.
The Buffalo Fire Department responded to 63 E. Delavan Avenue around 8:45 p.m. Sunday, where they saw bricks falling from the building's chimney.
The university confirmed Monday that a lightning strike caused the collapse.
"Canisius University can confirm that lightning struck the chimney of the Health Science Building at approximately 8:44 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, prompting an immediate response from Campus Safety, the Buffalo Fire Department, and the Buffalo Police Department. Responders secured the area, and no injuries were reported. Jefferson Avenue, between Delavan Avenue and Florida Street, is currently closed due to fallen debris," Canisius University said in a statement. "The university is awaiting an assessment of the structural impact from the City of Buffalo Building Inspector, and contractors are prepared to proceed based on this assessment. The university is prioritizing the safety of the campus community and continues to coordinate closely with city officials as their assessment proceeds."
That portion of Jefferson Avenue remains closed as building inspectors assess the situation.
