Balcony collapse near University of Cincinnati: at least 10 injuries

At least ten people were injured, including one critically, after a third-floor balcony gave way Friday night at a housing complex near the University of Cincinnati, according to officials. Emergency services received a call around 10:09 p.m. reporting the collapse at Stetson Square. University and city representatives confirmed that the building is not owned or managed by the university. Cincinnati Fire Chief Frank McKinley said that all victims were transported to local hospitals, with seven being treated at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Most of those injured are believed to be University of Cincinnati students, McKinley added. Authorities have not yet determined how many people were on the balcony at the time. Video footage from the scene showed the area cordoned off with yellow tape as first responders and fire crews worked late into the night. The university confirmed that it had been notified about the incident and is taking steps to assist affected students.

In a statement, a university spokesperson said they are working to identify all students impacted by the collapse and ensure they receive the necessary support. Although the accident occurred off campus, the Dean of Students office has offered temporary housing to anyone displaced by the event. Counseling and mental health services are also being made available, both in person and online, beginning Saturday, the spokesperson said.

The exact cause of the collapse remains under investigation even if early evaluations suggest that excessive weight might have contributed to the structural failure. The Cincinnati Department of Buildings and Inspections is continuing to assess the site, while 23 fire department units responded to the emergency. McKinley noted that some witnesses and victims with minor injuries have provided initial accounts, but officials emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages.