Six-Alarm Fire in Hamilton Heights Leaves One Firefighter Seriously Injured, Dozens Displaced
Fire marshals are investigating the cause of a six-alarm fire in Upper Manhattan on Friday that left one firefighter seriously injured and dozens of residents displaced.
Blaze Breaks Out at 528 West 145th St.
The blaze broke out at about 2:45 p.m. on November 1 inside 528 West 145th St. in Hamilton Heights. The first arriving FDNY units encountered heavy fire throughout the second floor of the six-story apartment building.
Firefighters Face Dangers
According to Chief of Fire Operations Kevin Woods, the firefighters noticed fire extending through the void spaces and floors above as they worked to advance hose lines to battle the flames.
Things took an even more dangerous turn when one firefighter, while using a hose line, fell through a shaft, landing 40 feet below.
Injured Firefighter
A firefighter, while backing down the stairs, stepped into a window and then down about 40 feet into a shaft behind the building, said Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker. The firefighter is in serious but stable condition in Harlem Hospital. He received immediate medical care at the bottom of the shaft from the FDNY physicians on the scene and our rescue medics and firefighters, got to him very quickly.
Other Injuries and Hospitalizations
Three other firefighters wound up being hospitalized at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital for injuries they suffered in the blaze, and are listed in stable condition. Five residents were also taken to local hospitals for treatment of injuries not considered life-threatening.
Blaze Brought Under Control
The blaze was brought under control at about 7:05 p.m. on Friday night.
Aftermath and Support
Mayor Eric Adams visited with the critically injured firefighter at the hospital, and also spoke with families displaced by the blaze as they were provided with care from the American Red Cross.
Conclusion
The six-alarm fire in Hamilton Heights on November 1, 2024, resulted in one firefighter seriously injured and dozens of residents displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation by fire marshals. The FDNY responded quickly to the blaze, but not before one firefighter fell 40 feet down a shaft and another three were hospitalized with injuries. The community is coming together to support those affected by the disaster.
FAQs
Q: What was the location of the six-alarm fire?
A: The blaze broke out at 528 West 145th St. in Hamilton Heights, Manhattan.
Q: How many firefighters were injured in the blaze?
A: Four firefighters were injured, including one who fell 40 feet down a shaft and was hospitalized in critical but stable condition.
Q: How many residents were displaced by the blaze?
A: Dozens of residents were displaced by the blaze.
