Bronx Apartment Fire Leaves 1 Dead, 14 Injured
A gas explosion in the Bronx has resulted in one fatality and left 14 others injured. This tragic incident occurred early Saturday, igniting a four-alarm fire in an apartment block.
Details of the Bronx Apartment Fire
The explosion took place at the Boston Secor Houses, a public housing complex located on Bivona Street. Approximately 150 homes were evacuated due to the blaze, which erupted at the top of a 17-story building.
Timeline of Events
- Time of Incident: Shortly after midnight.
- Emergency Response: Firefighters were already on the scene due to reports of a gas smell.
- Fire Control: The fire burned for several hours before being extinguished.
- Status: Fire officials declared the blaze under control by Saturday morning.
Impact on Residents
As a severe winter storm approached, many residents faced displacement in frigid temperatures near 9 degrees Fahrenheit. Emergency services set up a reception center at Cornerstone Academy for those in need of warmth and shelter.
Injuries and Casualties
Among the injured, one individual remains in critical condition, while five others are seriously hurt. All were transported to local hospitals. Additionally, one firefighter sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the operation.
Official Responses
New York City’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his condolences on social media, offering gratitude to first responders. Fire Chief John Esposito described the operation as extremely hazardous, highlighting the challenges faced by firefighters as they searched for trapped residents. Some firefighters themselves encountered danger when they were briefly trapped in an elevator.
Investigation and Building Background
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Recent renovations were underway at the Boston Secor Houses, which has 538 apartments and nearly 1,180 residents.
Overview of the Boston Secor Houses
- Year Built: 1969
- Renovation Program: Part of a federal program known as PACT, aimed at improving public housing.
- Management: Private companies manage the properties with oversight from the New York City Housing Authority.
Deputy Mayor Leila Bozorg noted that gas work was previously completed and approved, but further investigation is needed. This tragic fire serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures within residential complexes.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.
