A serious fire incident occurred in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, resulting in injuries to five individuals. The blaze ignited in a home on Humboldt Street shortly before 2 a.m. on Monday.
Fire Details and Response
The four-alarm fire rapidly consumed the primary residence and spread to two adjacent buildings. Firefighters faced significant challenges as they fought the flames, requiring hours of effort to bring the situation under control. Multiple fire hoses were deployed, and crews were tasked with breaking down paneling to extinguish the fire effectively.
Injuries and Safety Measures
Emergency services reported that two residents suffered burns, necessitating their transport to the burn unit at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Both individuals experienced minor burns to their faces and other body areas. Additionally, three firefighters received treatment for minor injuries incurred during the operation.
As a precaution, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) issued full vacate orders for the affected properties at 494 and 496 Humboldt Street. Minor damage was reported at 492 Humboldt. In the interest of public safety, the DOB directed the property owners to construct a tight board fence around their buildings and to engage a Professional Engineer to assess the structural integrity of the properties.
Weather Conditions Impacting Fire Response
Fire Department personnel faced difficulty due to freezing weather, which caused much of the water used to fight the blaze to freeze on the ground. Chief of Operations Kevin Woods noted the ongoing challenges posed by the cold, requiring frequent relief for firefighting units.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Local residents have expressed their concerns and empathies for those affected, particularly during the holiday season.
- Location: Humboldt Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
- Time of Incident: Before 2 a.m. on Monday
- Injuries: 5 individuals injured, including 2 residents with burns
- Firefighters Injured: 3 firefighters with minor injuries
- Building Status: Full vacate orders for 494 and 496 Humboldt; minor damage to 492
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the fire, updates will follow regarding the investigation and the recovery of those impacted. El-Balad will continue to provide timely news as it develops.
