Fire at 2910 Wallace Avenue: Landlord’s History of Neglect and Disrepair
Investigation Underway, Multiple Complaints and Lawsuits Filed
A five-alarm fire broke out in the early hours of January 10, 2025, at 2910 Wallace Avenue in the Bronx, leaving seven people injured and displacing at least 254 people from 93 households. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, but records reveal that the building’s landlord, Ved Parkash, has a history of neglect and disrepair.
Multiple Complaints and Lawsuits
According to records, the building’s landlord, Parkash, has faced numerous complaints and lawsuits related to the condition of his properties. In the past three years, there have been 239 heat and hot water complaints filed against Parkash, with 11 complaints filed just this month alone. Additionally, there have been at least 16 active lawsuits pending in Bronx and Queens Supreme Courts, including cases involving trip-and-fall injuries, scalding water incidents, and partially caved-in ceilings.
History of Neglect
Parkash has been labeled as a "notorious slumlord" by the New York Post in 2017, after a report exposed the deplorable conditions at one of his properties, including an infestation of rats carrying leptospirosis. The building, 750 Grand Concourse, had 592 heat and hot water complaints filed in the past three years.
Evictions and Legal Action
Parkash and his associates have also been accused of evicting disproportionately high numbers of low-income tenants, even when they have city-funded legal representation. In 2019, THE CITY reported on Parkash’s aggressive eviction tactics, which included threatening and harassing tenants.
Space Heaters and Electrical Fires
The fire at 2910 Wallace Avenue may be a harbinger of a growing concern: electrical fires caused by the use of space heaters. Just days earlier, a fire in a Washington Heights apartment was caused by numerous space heaters plugged into extension cords with other appliances. The FDNY has warned that space heaters should never be used in this way, and that electrical wiring is a major risk factor in fires.
Assistance for Displaced Families
The Bronx Times has learned that the work is underway to assist families displaced by the fire, with donations of food, clothing, and essential items being accepted at various offices, including those of Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Assembly Member John Zaccaro Jr., and Council Member Kevin Riley.
Conclusion
The fire at 2910 Wallace Avenue is a stark reminder of the dangers of neglect and disrepair, as well as the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of New York City’s residents. As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, it is clear that the city must take action to hold landlords like Parkash accountable for their actions, and to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to safe and habitable housing.
FAQs
Q: What is the current status of the investigation into the cause of the fire at 2910 Wallace Avenue?
A: The investigation is ongoing, with the FDNY and other authorities working to determine the cause of the blaze.
Q: What is the history of the building’s landlord, Ved Parkash?
A: Parkash has faced numerous complaints and lawsuits related to the condition of his properties, including allegations of neglect and disrepair.
Q: What is being done to assist families displaced by the fire?
A: The city and local officials are working to provide assistance, including donations of food, clothing, and essential items, to those affected by the fire.
