Sirens cut through early Sunday morning in Jackson Heights when a fire broke out just before 7:30 a.m. on the top floor of a six-story building on 76th Street, drawing a massive emergency response and leaving two people treated at the scene by EMS.
The scene on 76th Street
According to ABC7, more than 140 first responders rushed to the building after the fire started on the top floor. Fire officials told the station that two people were treated on site and that the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
Where this fits in a busy month for Queens firefighters
The Jackson Heights call came on the heels of another major Queens fire in early May, a wind-driven, four-alarm blaze that injured 14 firefighters and two residents and forced emergency bailouts, as reported by Fire Engineering. Taken together, the recent incidents are a stark reminder of how fast fires can rip through tightly packed residential blocks and how dangerous conditions can become when strong winds get involved.
Safety and city resources
FDNY officials continue to push some familiar but crucial advice: make sure smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms are installed and working. The department points residents to its free “Get Alarmed” installation program, run with the American Red Cross, for households that need alarms or help installing them, per the FDNY.
For New Yorkers dealing with the aftermath of a fire, the city shares local support and recovery information through NYC Emergency Management. Residents can call 311 for assistance or sign up for neighborhood alerts through NotifyNYC to get real-time updates and guidance when incidents unfold.
Fire investigators remained on 76th Street Sunday as crews wrapped up overhaul work and checked for hotspots. Officials said the investigation into what sparked the fire is ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact local authorities.
