Bronx Apartment Fire: 8 Injured, Dozens Displaced

A devastating 5-alarm fire ripped through an Allerton apartment building in the Bronx, leaving eight people injured and dozens of families homeless. The blaze, fueled by high winds, raged for 12 hours before being brought under control.

A Night of Chaos

The fire started in the upper floors of a building on Wallace Avenue around 1:45 a.m. Friday. Residents described grabbing what they could and evacuating as firefighters battled the intense flames. Chief of Department John Esposito stated that the heavy fire destroyed top-floor apartments and burned through the roof, making interior firefighting too dangerous.

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While eight people, including firefighters, suffered smoke inhalation, thankfully there were no life-threatening injuries. Mayor Eric Adams and Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker both described the lack of serious injuries as a miracle given the scale of the fire.

Aftermath and Support

The Red Cross is providing assistance to the displaced residents, with 95 households (262 individuals) registered for emergency aid, including lodging. A temporary shelter has been set up at PS 76.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Residents have reported prior issues with heat in the building, filing complaints with 311. Authorities are exploring whether attempts to stay warm using stoves and ovens in the frigid temperatures contributed to the blaze.

Donations Needed

Donations of new clothes, non-perishable food, and other essential items are being accepted at the following locations from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

• Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson - Bronx Supreme Court: 851 Grand Concourse, Suite 123
• Assembly Member John Zaccaro, Jr. District Office: 2018 Williamsbridge Road
• Senator Jamaal T. Bailey District Office: 959 East 233rd Street
• Council Member Kevin C. Riley District Office: 940 East Gun Hill Road

This tragic event highlights the urgent need for improved building safety and access to resources for vulnerable communities.