Displaced residents frustrated as demolition begins on FQ building

NEW ORLEANS, LA (WVUE) -

Demolition cranes began tearing down what's left of a collapsed building in the French Quarter, but some residents are complaining after being forced out of their homes for three days.

Bricks and mortar crumbled like powder as demolition crews began removing what is left of a collapsed building at 808 Royal St.

"Our mission talks about life and property. We're fortunate we haven't lost anybody," said New Orleans Fire Department Superintendent Tim McConnell.

It's a delicate operation, which has forced several business owners, and residents on either side of the property to be evacuated, and have to stay in hotels, for three days.

"Coming out of my own pocket, and not being able to work, that's been frustrating," said St Ann Street resident Sherry Dooley

The building, which is owned by Elaine Petrie, began crumbling Tuesday, with a near total collapse on Wednesday.

" I've been here seven years, the only thing that's been done is the front was painted," said neighbor Lawrence Tullier.

While work crews took away what's left of the collapsed building some of the residents displaced were confused about some of the rules being applied to this block.

"You would think you would be afraid of a gas explosion, our gas is still on," said Tullier.

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Displaced residents frustrated as demolition begins on FQ building