A late-night fire tore through part of Manhattan's Lower East Side early Friday, injuring seven people and triggering an arson-style investigation after the Fire Department of New York labeled the blaze "suspicious." The alarm sounded shortly after 2 a.m., and firefighters and emergency medical crews stayed on the scene into the morning.
FDNY Flags Overnight Blaze As Suspicious
According to CBS News New York, the FDNY deemed the fire suspicious after flames erupted just after 2 a.m. Video from the scene shows multiple ladder trucks and ambulances lined up as crews worked to douse the fire and treat the injured.
Specialized Fire Marshals To Lead Investigation
Per the FDNY, fires considered suspicious are typically turned over to the department's Bureau of Fire Investigation. Fire marshals examine where and how the blaze started and coordinate with law enforcement when needed. Those on-scene investigations can stretch over several days, and criminal referrals are only made if investigators find evidence that the fire was deliberately set.
Injuries And Cause Still Unclear
Officials had not released further details on the seven victims' conditions or any preliminary findings on what sparked the fire, according to the report. Investigators remained at the site Friday morning, and CBS News New York indicated it would update its coverage as authorities share more information.
