A Mount Vernon home that was gutted by a fire was demolished Tuesday following an outcry from the community.

The decision to raze the house came after a long battle between city officials and landlord Stephen Chullickil over who was responsible for the demolition of the house at 232 South Third Ave. Neighbors say the property had become an eyesore and a magnet for drug addicts over the past year.

Officials warned Chullickil that if he didn't tear down the house by Oct.17, the city would do the work and bill him.

Chullickil says he will build a new two-family house once the debris is removed.

For demolition footage from fire-damaged Mt. Vernon house, go to your digital cable box and select iO Extra on Ch. 612.