NEW YORK CITY, NY — A powerful car explosion in the Bronx on Wednesday night left seven FDNY firefighters injured and sent a massive fireball blasting into the night sky, officials confirmed.
Firefighters Caught in Bronx Blast
The explosion occurred around 7:06 p.m. on Kelly Street between Intervale Avenue and Longwood Avenue, where firefighters were responding to a vehicle and sidewalk fire in front of a residential building.
According to the FDNY, flames quickly spread through debris and multiple vehicles before an intense blast erupted, engulfing nearby firefighters in flames.
“There was a lot of garbage and debris on the sidewalk that was on fire. There were a couple of cars on fire. Shortly after we arrived, there was a large fireball,” said Chief of Department John Esposito during a late-night news conference.
Footage Shows Towering Flames
Video captured by bystanders showed a towering inferno lighting up the Bronx sky, with billowing smoke visible for several blocks. Witnesses described hearing a “thunderous boom” followed by shouts for help.
Authorities said three firefighters were rushed to Jacobi Hospital with severe burns, while four others suffered minor injuries.
“The burns are considered serious but not life-threatening,” Esposito confirmed to The Post. “They’re awake, alert, and speaking.”
Doctors “Worried but Hopeful”
At Jacobi Hospital, Dr. Sheldon Temperman said he expects the injured firefighters to recover but remains cautious.
“A wall of fire came on them and surrounded them,” Temperman told reporters. “They were concerned about their colleagues and their families. I’ll be worried until they’re all home, but we expect full recoveries.”
Fire Contained, Investigation Underway
The blaze was brought under control by 8:19 p.m., but the aftermath revealed charred car frames and soot-covered sidewalks strewn with debris.
So far, no pedestrian injuries have been reported, according to the NYPD.
A hazmat unit, along with the Bureau of Fire Investigation and Bureau of Fire Prevention, remained at the scene late into the night to determine the cause of the explosion.
“An investigation is ongoing,” Chief Esposito said.
Authorities have not yet released details about what triggered the blast, but officials said they are exploring all possible causes, including the possibility of flammable materials igniting in or around the vehicle.
Community Shaken but Grateful
Local residents expressed gratitude that no bystanders were seriously hurt. “You could feel the heat from a block away,” one witness said. “Those firefighters ran toward the flames — they’re real heroes.”
What do you think caused the explosion? Share your thoughts and support for the injured firefighters in the comments below.
