Bronx, NY — Seven New York City firefighters were injured Wednesday evening after a sudden explosion erupted while they were battling a fire involving trash and vehicles on a Bronx street, according to officials.
The blast sent a fireball several feet into the air, injuring multiple first responders and igniting debris across Westchester Avenue. Authorities said that while none of the injuries were life-threatening, several firefighters suffered serious burns to their hands and faces.
Explosion Erupts During Routine Call
New York City Fire Chief John Esposito said firefighters responded around 7 p.m. Wednesday to a report of burning trash and cars near Westchester Avenue. Moments after they began working to extinguish the blaze, a powerful explosion tore through the scene.
“There was a lot of garbage and debris on the sidewalk that was on fire. There were a couple of cars that were on fire,” Esposito said. “Shortly after crews arrived, there was some sort of explosion, a large fireball.”
Five firefighters sustained burn injuries, and three were hospitalized for treatment. All of them were awake and alert, Esposito confirmed.
“They have some serious burns, and we’ll be obviously praying for them,” he added.
According to NBC News, the cause of the blast remains under investigation, though officials suspect that flammable debris or fuel sources at the scene may have triggered the explosion.
Witnesses Describe a “Wall of Fire”
Residents in the area said the explosion happened without warning, sending panic through the neighborhood. A bystander captured video from a nearby building showing a massive fireball erupting past glass windows and showering sparks across the street.
“Before you know it, it was a big explosion — the firemen had to run,” said Jose Luis Rojas, who lives nearby and witnessed the blast.
The explosion caused nearby vehicles to catch fire, and flames spread rapidly across trash piles before firefighters regained control.
Firefighters Recovering in Hospital
At Jacobi Medical Center, trauma surgeon Dr. Sheldon Teperman said the injured firefighters are expected to recover from their burns.
“A wall of fire came on them and surrounded them,” Teperman said. “What they were concerned about was their colleagues and their families.”
Doctors said all seven injured firefighters were treated for burns and smoke exposure, and several will require follow-up care for healing.
“These are New York’s bravest,” Teperman added, commending their courage under extreme conditions.
Community and FDNY Response
City officials praised the firefighters’ quick actions, noting that their response likely prevented a larger disaster. The FDNY has launched a full investigation into the cause of the explosion and is reviewing body camera and security footage from the scene.
The department is also working to identify what materials may have been burning on the sidewalk before the explosion occurred.
Chief Esposito emphasized that the department will provide continued support to the injured firefighters and their families.
“They put their lives on the line every day for this city,” he said. “We’re thankful they’re all alive and recovering.”
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