A significant fire devastated a century-old building in the Bronx on Tuesday, resulting in two fatalities and injuring nearly ten others, as reported by authorities.
More than 270 firefighters and paramedics responded shortly after 1:30 p.m. to the five-story structure on East 187th Street following reports of fire and smoke, according to the FDNY.
During a news conference, FDNY Fire Operations Director Kevin Woods indicated that firefighters encountered “extreme fire” on the first floor, which contained a commercial space.
The flames spread quickly up the stairs, consuming each level of the building. Firefighters attacked the blaze “very aggressively” on the first four floors.
Upon reaching the top floor, crews found the structure to be unstable, leading to a decision to tackle the fire from the outside instead.
A ladder company assisted in rescuing residents trapped on both the front and back of the building, including one individual who had become stuck in a window without a fire escape and others on the front fire escape.
Two unnamed individuals perished in the fire, according to the FDNY.
Two others were transported to local hospitals with serious injuries, and there were minor injuries reported among five firefighters and four civilians.
Woods described the damage as “significant” and noted that the roof and stairwell collapsed due to the intense heat.
He mentioned that the building was not fireproofed, stating, “this building is over 100 years old and has a lot of voids, so it was very difficult.”
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson informed reporters, “Today, the Bronx faces another 5-alarm fire. This building on East 187th Street has 26 homes in it,” expressing her condolences for the victims’ families.
Gibson also commended the city’s first responders, emphasizing that their “heroic efforts” likely prevented more casualties.
Residents impacted by the fire are advised to seek assistance at the reception center located at Dodge High School.
Engineers are expected to evaluate the building’s structural stability, as there is still a risk of further collapse.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
