Stairwell Collapse in Portsmouth Leaves Teen Dead and Three Injured

A partial building collapse in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, resulted in the death of a 15-year-old girl and left three others injured during a graduation party on June 7, 2025. The incident occurred at the Portuguese American Citizens Club on Power Street, with approximately 75 attendees present at the time. The collapse involved the front exterior stairwell of the building, which gave way and trapped several individuals beneath the debris.

Emergency services responded promptly after receiving reports of people pinned under the collapsed stairwell. Two 17-year-old girls and a 49-year-old woman sustained significant injuries and were transported to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. Authorities reported that one of the victims required extensive rescue efforts lasting up to 50 minutes due to entrapment beneath a concrete wall.

Assistant Fire Chief Howie Tighe confirmed that the collapse originated from the landing section of the stairwell, which gave out beneath the victims. Initial investigations have ruled out vehicle impact as a cause. A building inspector was dispatched to assess the integrity of the remaining structure and assist in the ongoing safety assessment.

Multiple agencies, including fire and rescue teams from Portsmouth, Middletown, Bristol, and Fall River, provided support during the emergency response. The incident has prompted a detailed review of the building's structural condition and compliance with local safety codes.

Law enforcement and structural experts continue to investigate the exact cause of the failure. No official statement has been released regarding any prior complaints or inspections of the property. The building remains under evaluation as authorities determine the necessary measures to prevent further risk.

More information and footage on the following video.