A five-alarm fire erupted in Queens, New York, on Saturday, resulting in at least 21 injuries, including 17 firefighters, and causing significant damage to multiple residential buildings. The blaze, which began just before 10 a.m., quickly involved two two-story wooden apartment buildings constructed in 1930, and the fire spread to a third.
FDNY Chief of Fire Operations Kevin Woods reported that firefighters encountered high heat and zero visibility conditions upon arrival. Rescue efforts were made to the second floor, where one resident was trapped and subsequently transported to the hospital. In addition to the 17 FDNY members, two Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel and two civilians sustained injuries. Officials stated that none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.
The fire, which required approximately 250 firefighters to bring under control, caused heavy damage to the involved structures. Many families have been displaced by the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.