World

Massive 5-Alarm Fire in Bronx Apartment Injures 7

A fire engulfed a Bronx apartment building, injuring seven including five firefighters and displacing over 100 residents. Here's what happened.

A dramatic scene of a burning apartment building in the Bronx, with flames roaring from the upper floors and thick smoke billowing skyward. Firefighters in full gear are seen battling the blaze with hoses, while emergency vehicles with flashing lights surround the area. The photo captures the urgency of the situation as residents evacuate the building, with visible distress on their faces. The backdrop shows a cold winter night, with snow and ice on the ground, highlighting the challenging conditions for both the responders and the residents affected by the fire.

A massive fire broke out early Friday morning at a six-story apartment building located at 2910 Wallace Avenue in the Bronx, leading to a rapid response from nearly 200 firefighters. This five-alarm blaze was first reported to the FDNY around 1:40 a.m., quickly escalating due to heavy winds that fueled the flames and made firefighting efforts challenging.

Details of the Incident

As the situation developed, firefighters battled towering flames that engulfed the building, visible from blocks away. Within an hour of the initial response, the high winds pushed the fire to a five-alarm level, signifying the most severe fire alarm status due to the extensive threat it posed to life and property.

At least seven individuals suffered injuries during the incident, including five firefighters and two civilians. Fortunately, one civilian declined hospital treatment after being evaluated at the scene. The firefighters faced smoke inhalation and were treated as they fought bravely against the escalating fire.

Impact on Residents

The blaze has led to significant displacement, with more than 100 residents reported to be affected. Local authorities, including the Red Cross, are providing assistance. A temporary shelter has been set up at PS 76, and transportation via an MTA bus is being provided at the scene for those in need of accommodation.

Residents described a harrowing experience. One resident, Jenny, recounted, "Everyone just grabbed what they could and we left the building." She noted that while the fire appeared extensive outside, the smoke level inside was less intense than expected.

Support and Recovery Efforts

As the firefighting operations continued for several hours, the Sanitation Department worked diligently to clear frozen runoff that had created hazardous conditions on the street. Following the fire's containment, the Buildings Department will conduct an evaluation of the structure's stability, assessing whether it can be deemed safe for re-entry or if it is at risk of collapse.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by residential fires, particularly under adverse weather conditions. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and prepared, especially in the wake of such devastating events that affect numerous lives.

Conclusion

This ongoing situation highlights the incredible efforts of our brave firefighters, who risk their lives to protect us during such emergencies. As recovery efforts unfold, our thoughts remain with those displaced and affected by this tragic fire.

Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as more information arises.

Read more