Fast-moving Queens fire engulfs home, leaves man dead: FDNY
Fire Rips Through Home in Jamaica, Queens
A three-alarm fire engulfed a two-story residence at 116-50 146th St. in Jamaica, Queens on Sunday morning, March 2, 2025, leaving one man dead and five others injured.
Firefighters Battle Heavy Smoke and Gusty Conditions
Engine Company 275 and Ladder Company 133 were the first to arrive on the scene, where they encountered heavy fire spreading throughout the home and an attached dwelling. Firefighters battled through thick smoke and gusty conditions to rescue a critically injured man, believed to be 55 years old, who suffered from smoke inhalation and burns.
Rescue and Treatment
Firefighters pulled the man from the residence and transferred him to waiting paramedics, who rushed him to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later, according to sources. Five other people, including three firefighters, suffered minor injuries.
Challenges in Battling the Fire
Firefighters faced a tough battle due to the strong winds, which fanned the flames and made it difficult to contain the fire. “The wind really took a hold of the fire,” a firefighter at the scene said. “The whole back of both buildings was bright orange, and smoke was blowing strong,” a neighbor who witnessed the blaze said.
Propane Tank and Lithium-Ion Battery Found
Things got dicey when firefighters discovered a propane tank burning in the backyard of one of the dwellings. Members of HazMat Unit 1 rushed from their Maspeth headquarters to safely remove the device. Additionally, firefighters recovered a lithium-ion battery at the scene, and are working to determine if it played a role in the blaze.
FDNY’s Response and Investigation
In all, more than 140 firefighters participated in the operation, using six hose lines to knock down the main body of fire, which was placed under control at about 12:15 p.m. Sunday. The cause of the fire is now under investigation by FDNY Marshals.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of life and injuries in this fire serve as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness. We mourn the loss of the victim and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.
Frequently Asked Questions
* What was the cause of the fire?
The cause is currently under investigation by FDNY Marshals.
* How many people were injured in the fire?
One man was killed, and five others, including three firefighters, suffered minor injuries.
* How many firefighters responded to the scene?
Over 140 firefighters participated in the operation.