A fast-moving fire tore through two neighboring apartment buildings on Ocean Parkway in Kensington on Wednesday evening, sending thick smoke into the sky and forcing dozens of residents to flee with little warning. Firefighters stayed on scene into the night, and city inspectors later barred anyone from going back inside. Officials said there were no reported injuries, but many families are now scrambling to figure out where to sleep.
According to News 12 Brooklyn, the FDNY said the blaze started just after 6 p.m. at 188 Ocean Parkway, burning in the space just below the roof before spreading to the neighboring building at 184 Ocean Parkway. The Department of Buildings issued full vacate orders for both addresses, and the American Red Cross has registered six households, including 12 adults and three children, for emergency housing and financial assistance.
A woman visiting family from Florida told News 12 Brooklyn that the fire took them completely by surprise. “There was fire on the roof. We felt nothing. We see nothing, smell nothing,” she said, adding that her son was the one who told everyone to get out. Video from the scene showed heavy smoke billowing from the top of the building as firefighters worked from aerial ladders.
Where displaced residents can turn
The American Red Cross is on site helping residents who registered with volunteers secure temporary lodging and emergency funds. Its Greater New York page outlines the support available for people affected by home fires.
HPD’s Emergency Housing Services can assist eligible renters with longer-term relocation and is coordinating with the Department of Buildings on the status of the vacate orders. The mayor’s Back Home Unit, which was announced by the Mayor's Office earlier this year, may also be involved in helping residents find more stable housing as the recovery process stretches on.
What a "full vacate" means and next steps
The NYC Department of Buildings' vacate order FAQ explains that a full vacate order means no one is allowed back inside until inspectors confirm that necessary repairs have been made and the order is officially lifted. The page lists contacts, including HPD’s Emergency Housing Services and the Red Cross, for tenants who need immediate shelter or relocation assistance.
Fire marshals are investigating what sparked the blaze, and city inspectors will not clear either building for reoccupation until structural and fire safety concerns are addressed. In the meantime, neighbors are cobbling together short-term plans while volunteers and city staff help residents navigate housing options, insurance headaches and whatever comes next.
