Three children were left in an “extremely critical condition” and 10 firefighters were injured after two fires tore through an apartment building and several businesses in Brooklyn on Sunday. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of residents and the need for proper fire prevention measures.
The devastating fires occurred in the Brownsville section and Williamsburg Street East of Brooklyn. The first fire broke out in an 11th-floor apartment on Livonia Avenue in Brownsville. Three children, aged 4, 5, and 8, were left severely injured as a result. The apartment did not have working smoke alarms, further exacerbating the situation. Firefighters had to force open the locked apartment door and encountered intense flames upon entry. The children were found unconscious in the living room and behind the front door. Thankfully, firefighters managed to rescue them and initiate life-saving measures.
The second fire occurred less than an hour later in Williamsburg, engulfing nine businesses. Firefighters faced difficulties accessing the businesses due to locked gates. They had to use saws to cut through and enter the premises. By the time they gained access, the fire had spread extensively, causing significant damage to the affected establishments.
Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh stated that all 13 individuals injured in the incidents were in stable condition as of Sunday afternoon. However, the three children remained hospitalized with severe injuries. One firefighter initially had critical conditions but responded well to treatment and was alert during the news conference.
Investigators are currently working to determine the cause of both fires. Commissioner Kavanagh mentioned that the high temperatures on that day posed challenges for firefighters combating the flames. The investigation will shed light on whether any negligence or arson contributed to the incidents.
The tragedy has prompted questions about why the children were left alone in the apartment. The father is currently in custody and undergoing questioning. Authorities are trying to understand the circumstances that led to the children being left unattended.
Over 200 firefighters and emergency medical personnel responded to the fire in Williamsburg, highlighting the significant resources required to handle such incidents. The affected businesses suffered substantial damage, with Sew Splendid displaying charred ribbons and other fabric trims hanging from the walls. A neighboring roofing supplies store had been reduced to wooden beams. The aftermath of the fire left debris scattered outside the affected businesses, requiring efforts to clean up and rebuild.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, including functioning smoke alarms and supervised care for young children. The investigation will provide critical insights into the causes of these fires to prevent similar incidents in the future.