Pictures captured firefighters grappling with a fierce five-alarm fire that erupted Thursday night at a historic Queens church, a site that has faced such devastation over a century ago.
The blaze ignited around 6:45 p.m. in a residence adjacent to the First Reformed Church of Astoria, located on 12th Street between 27th Street and Main Avenue, as reported by the FDNY.
Fire officials noted that the flames quickly spread to the church, prompting a five-alarm response, which involved about 270 firefighters and paramedics.
Images depict bright orange flames licking at the roof of the church, with thick smoke enveloping the area.
Five firefighters were reported hospitalized, though their current conditions remain unclear.
Founded in the late 1830s, the church had previously suffered a fire on January 14, 1888, which led to its demolition and subsequent rebuilding.
Firefighters continued their efforts into the night, battling the stubborn blaze.
A local resident, Jack, shared his observations with Freedom News TV, stating, “The firefighters arrived as we did. They were trying to identify the fire’s source, and it quickly spread to the church. It seems like they’ve been struggling to contain it since.” He added that the fire appeared “stubborn” and unyielding.
Former deacon Kevin Harris expressed the community’s distress over the damage, recalling personal connections to the church. “It hurts, it really does. It’s part of our lives,” he said, mentioning family members who attended the church over the years.
Local officials urged nearby residents to stay indoors and keep windows closed as a precaution.
Congresswoman Diana Moreno commented on social media about the ongoing situation, advising people in the area to avoid smoking and informing them of road closures: Astoria Boulevard from 12th Avenue to 27th Avenue and 27th Avenue from 8th Avenue to 14th Avenue.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
