The cause of the devastating five-alarm fire in New York City, which resulted in injuries to 14 individuals and the temporary displacement of over 400 residents, has been determined. It was found that the fire was ignited by a construction worker who was using a block torch to remove paint.
According to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), a massive fire erupted on the top floor of a six-story building in Sunnyside, Queens around noon on Wednesday.
According to the FDNY, a contractor was utilizing a torch to heat lead paint off a metal closet door frame in the vacant apartment when they noticed smoke emanating from the door frame.
The worker at 43-09 47th Ave. attempted to put out the flames while the FDNY was called to the scene. The worker pointed out the burnt wooden studs to the FDNY captain, who quickly realized that the fire had also spread within the walls. Concerned for safety, the captain instructed the worker to evacuate. It was then discovered that the fire had extended to the roof.
Over 130 firefighters were deployed to combat the fire, resulting in one firefighter sustaining an injury during the operation.
According to WCBS, an FDNY spokesperson reported that one of their firefighters was transported to the hospital in a serious but stable condition.
According to the fire department, some residents of the building were transported to the hospital due to minor injuries.
Approximately 450 residents were forced to leave their homes, and the Red Cross promptly stepped in to provide assistance to those affected by the displacement.
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