At least five people, including three firefighters, were injured when a fire broke out at a Brooklyn church where about 170 worshipers had gathered for Easter services Sunday, the FDNY said.
The five-alarm fire was reported just before 2 p.m. at the Basilica of Our Lady of Rosary Pompeii in east Williamsburg, and about 44 fire companies were called to battle the blaze, fire officials told The Post.
“During mass, they noticed black smoke coming out.” [from behind the altar]believers informed me,” said Father Romulo Marin, the church’s priest. “When I turned around and opened the door, [to the church office located behind the altar]it was already on fire, everything was on fire, the roof [in the office]”
The FDNY shared images of the fire, showing black smoke billowing from the church’s windows and flames reaching the roof.
Five people suffered minor injuries, but Officials spoke at X. Three of the injured were Bravest, authorities said.
The priest said he was told by fire officials that the cause of the fire was electrical, adding that his biggest concern was not that the Easter service was ruined, but that all the members of the congregation were safe and sound. .
“Everyone acted normal and slowly walked out of the church. For me, it was a big concern that everyone was safe,” he said.
Regarding the Easter Sunday fire, Marin said, “Christ is risen. This is a church we can rebuild.”
One worshiper, who identified herself as Blanca, mourned the loss of her place of worship.
“I’m so sad about losing the church. This is the church I go to every day,” she said.
This is a developing story.
