Six Dead, Several Injured in Devastating Three-Alarm House Fire on 58th Street and 7th Avenue

Yisroel R.

Six people were killed and several others injured early Thursday morning after a massive three-alarm fire tore through a residential building, prompting a large emergency response and leaving several families devastated.

The fire broke out at approximately 1:30 a.m. at 653 58th Street. Flames quickly spread through the building, causing extensive damage and a partial collapse of the staircase as firefighters worked to rescue trapped residents.

Four adults were found dead at the scene, while two additional victims later died at the hospital, bringing the confirmed death toll to six. Four civilians, three firefighters, and two police officers were also reported injured. At least one victim was reported to be in critical condition, while authorities continued working to account for everyone who may have been inside the building.

According to FDNY officials, 74 emergency units and 231 FDNY and EMS personnel responded to the fire. The first firefighters arrived within three minutes and 18 seconds of receiving the call. Firefighters faced dangerous conditions inside the building, including heavy flames, smoke, and a partially collapsed staircase. Two occupants trapped behind barred first-floor windows were reached through a rear entrance. A total of four people were rescued from the burning building, with two surviving.

The fire occurred along a row of 25 wood-frame buildings, raising concerns that the flames could spread to neighboring homes. Firefighters managed to contain the damage, with the fire reaching only the exterior of one adjoining building. The three-alarm fire was brought under control at approximately 4:28 a.m., nearly three hours after it began.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani visited the scene earlier Thursday as city officials addressed the tragedy and the extensive emergency response.

The victims were reported to be members of the local Asian and Chinese communities, which have a significant presence in the Sunset Park neighborhood. Eight residents from nearby buildings were provided temporary hotel accommodations with assistance from the American Red Cross.

Fire marshals are investigating the cause of the deadly blaze. Two lithium-ion batteries were reportedly discovered inside the building, but officials stressed that no determination has been made linking the batteries to the fire.

Investigators are also reviewing reports that smoke detectors may have sounded during the incident.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish what caused the fire and determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.