Upper East Side Inferno: Three-Alarm Fire Engulfs Six-Story Building

A massive three-alarm fire ripped through a six-story apartment building on Manhattan's Upper East Side on Friday, sending plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky.

<img src="https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/08/15/3e843bd0-d0c7-4097-a608-3b6a77a4f520/thumbnail/640x360/61ba889d0f9e72ea6d51f736cef0f1ec/chopper-1030am-hi-res-still-10-51-5129.jpg#" alt="Firefighters battling the blaze">

Dramatic Scenes and Injuries

The FDNY responded to reports of a roof fire at 305 E. 95th St. just after 10 a.m. The fire quickly escalated, requiring over 40 units and 170 responders. Dramatic videos captured the intense flames and thick black smoke. Three firefighters sustained minor injuries.

Explosion Reported, Residents Evacuated

Residents reported hearing a loud explosion before the fire erupted. One resident recounted, "The entire building shook. I thought a truck hit the building, or even an earthquake." Another stated, "I heard people screaming, 'Get out, get out!'" The Red Cross is assisting displaced families. The building's gas has been shut off, and a structural stability inspection is underway.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the fire is under investigation. A partial stop-work order from 2015 related to an illegally constructed cellar apartment is being reviewed for any possible connection. Fortunately, all residents escaped safely.