Firefighters rushed over to 955 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx at Longwood just after 7 p.m. on Wednesday. A garbage fire ignited close to piles of trash, spreading rapidly toward parked vehicles, a car and a van. People nearby caught the action on video as flames grew high and caused an intense outburst.
A large fireball thrust up into the sky, crossing the road in a scattering of bits. The shock rattled windows in surrounding buildings and illuminated the area in a fierce orange glow. Officials found that the refuse fire consumed the cars before calling forth the explosion.
Emergency Response
FDNY units were brought into action immediately as they moved in to control the inferno using hoses and foam filled extinguishers. The team fought the fire, preventing it from reaching any nearby homes and business establishments.
However, despite the eruption’s speed and destructiveness, crews held their ground and mopped up the flames completely in a short time. By proving effective in their intervention, the lesson it taught was meant to minimize damage to property and keep the local populace safe.
Injuries and Aftermath
Seven FDNY firefighters were injured by the explosion. In need of hospital care, these victims were transported to a facility nearby, and doctors are hopeful about their recoveries. No civilians sustained injuries during the incident.
Investigators are now looking at how the fire and subsequent explosion started, with initial reports indicating that garbage was the likely source. Community members have also praised the firefighters for their bravery.