Story perspectives

Displaced Tenants Sue Developer for $1.7 Million Over 2015 Explosion

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former tenants of an East Village building destroyed in a 2015 gas explosion filed a lawsuit against developer Yanic Cohen seeking $1.7 million in housing stipends.
The 2015 explosion killed two people and destroyed three buildings, displacing the tenants.
Cohen bought lots for $9.15 million in 2017 and built a condo, without compensating displaced tenants.
State affirmed the amount, but Cohen has appealed, and the tenants are owed $1,709,087 plus interest.

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Story summary

Former tenants of an East Village building destroyed in a 2015 gas explosion filed a lawsuit against developer Yanic Cohen seeking $1.7 million in housing stipends.
The 2015 explosion killed two people and destroyed three buildings, displacing the tenants.
Cohen bought lots for $9.15 million in 2017 and built a condo, without compensating displaced tenants.
State affirmed the amount, but Cohen has appealed, and the tenants are owed $1,709,087 plus interest.