A massive explosion and partial building collapse this afternoon in New York’s Chinatown resulted in 8 people injured as a towering plume of smoke drew attention for miles around.
This is a breaking story. Here’s what we know so far.
1. The Explosion Was Caused By Bug Bombs/h2>
Fire in Chinatown! Just when I was going to buy a bus ticket! pic.twitter.com/jbgPQsYT54
— Bernice Miller (@SayBeezy) July 11, 2013
Fire in Chinatown! Just when I was going to buy a bus ticket! pic.twitter.com/jbgPQsYT54
— Bernice Miller (@SayBeezy) July 11, 2013
The explosion and ensuing fire occurred when a number of “bug foggers,” used to spray pesticide in a mist-like form, caught fire and exploded. The fire and explosion originated in the basement of the building, allowing the fire to spread to the floors above.
2. The Address is on Pike Street
The explosion reportedly took place at 17 Pike Street. The call came in at 12:42 p.m.
3. The Building Caught Fire
Flames spread from the first to the second floor as city firefighters arrived to battle the blaze and locate victims.
Breaking: at least 6 people have been injured in a building explosion in #Chinatown. http://t.co/BOMDsWLDjc pic.twitter.com/a0sNz0zcRJ
— MyFoxNY.com (@MyFoxNY) July 11, 2013
Firefighters could be seen pulling a man from the building into the bucket of a raised rescue tower ladder.
One firefighters suffered minor injuries during the rescue operation, reports ABC 7.
4. People May Not Be Able to Return to Their Homes
According to reports, the first floor is a business and the rest of the building houses apartments. A witness at the scene who works for Asian Americans for Equality showed concerns that many people may not be able to return to their apartments.
5. There Are Multiple Injures, Some Serious
At least five people injured after an explosion and flash fire on Pike Street in Chinatown. @eyewitnessnyc pic.twitter.com/AbsGAI2vrR
— NJ Burkett (@njburkett7) July 11, 2013
Three of the five Chinatown victims suffered respiratory burns and smoke inhalation. @eyewitnessnyc pic.twitter.com/ZDqmov3TMZ
— NJ Burkett (@njburkett7) July 11, 2013
NBC 4 reports eight people injured, with three of the victims in serious condition.