A massive fire broke out in a Brooklyn supermarket, resulting in injuries to seven people and the displacement of around 30 residents in neighboring apartment buildings. The fire started in Christa’s Kitchen & Market in Bushwick and quickly grew to a five-alarm fire, with over 250 firefighters responding to the scene. The injured included six firefighters and one civilian who suffered minor injuries and smoke inhalation. First Deputy Commissioner Joseph Pfeifer expressed sympathy for the community impacted by the fire.
The flames originated in the food store and spread to two adjoining buildings and at least two buildings behind it. Despite the swift response of firefighters, the wooden structures of the buildings caused the fire to spread rapidly. Assistant Chief Thomas Currao described the challenges faced in combating fires in wood-frame construction buildings. Fire engines were seen working to extinguish the fire while officials assured that they would be on the scene for an extended period.
Red Cross staffers also assisted the 30 residents left homeless by the fire, arranging transportation to a reception center and providing blankets and water bottles. Displaced residents like Mark and Kat expressed shock and devastation over the loss of their homes. Some residents who witnessed the fire unfolding from a distance mentioned that the smoke could be seen for about a mile, with one individual named Will describing it as something he had never seen before.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and fire marshals will be conducting an investigation. The Brooklyn community affected by this tragic incident will need significant support and assistance as they recover from the destruction caused by the fire. The Red Cross continues to provide aid to those impacted, while the FDNY works on fully extinguishing the fire. The damaged buildings will require significant repair and reconstruction efforts as the community comes together to rebuild after this devastating event.
