Bronx firehouse erupts in flames forcing dramatic firefighter rescue
THE BRONX, N.Y. — What started as a routine early morning inside a Bronx firehouse quickly turned into a life-threatening emergency as flames tore through the building, trapping firefighters on an upper floor.
The chaos unfolded early Friday morning at Engine 79, where a fast-moving fire broke out on the first floor and rapidly spread to the apparatus bay and up a stairwell — cutting off escape routes for those inside.
With smoke and fire blocking the main exit, several firefighters found themselves stranded on the second floor with no safe way down.
Instead of panicking, they followed the same life-saving guidance they give the public — sheltering in place, closing doors behind them and waiting for help.
That decision proved critical.
Firefighters arriving on scene quickly escalated the situation to a third alarm, bringing more than 160 FDNY and EMS personnel to battle the blaze and rescue their trapped colleagues.
Ladder companies rushed into action, using portable and aerial ladders to reach the second floor and pull firefighters to safety from outside the building.
Officials said the fire was first spotted by a firefighter inside the house, who immediately raised the alarm — giving others precious seconds to react before conditions worsened.
In total, 14 firefighters suffered minor injuries, with several taken to nearby hospitals for evaluation.
Despite the intensity of the fire and the dangerous conditions inside, all members were safely removed.
The blaze has since been brought under control, but the firehouse itself sustained significant damage.
The cause remains under investigation.
Fire officials said crews are now working to relocate operations to ensure emergency coverage in the surrounding neighborhood continues uninterrupted while repairs are made.
Key Points
- Fire tore through Bronx firehouse trapping firefighters on upper floor
- Ladder crews rescued members using aerial and portable ladders
- 14 firefighters injured with several hospitalized