Firefighters extinguished a fire on the Brooklyn Bridge late Saturday night during New York City's July Fourth fireworks display. The incident occurred as former President Donald Trump, speaking in Washington D.C. for an America 250 celebration, praised the bridge as "one of the greatest architectural feats of all time."
Crowdgoers observed flames and a plume of smoke on the landmark during the city's fireworks show, which had its start time moved up due to the threat of severe weather. The bridge was closed to traffic for the duration of the fireworks display. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
During his "Salute to America 250" speech on the National Mall, Trump referenced the Brooklyn Bridge while highlighting historic American flags. One flag presented during his address was stated to have first flown over the bridge. The speech itself was also subject to delays caused by thunderstorms.
Trump's remarks described the Brooklyn Bridge as "one of the most beautiful bridges anywhere in the world – built a long time ago." The celebration in Washington D.C. also faced weather-related disruptions, including an evacuation of the crowd on the National Mall.
The New York City Fire Department utilized two fire engines to combat the blaze on the bridge. The fireworks show proceeded despite the fire, which was successfully contained.