Greenwood Heights, NY, US: A sudden and intense fire erupted in the basement of a residential apartment building early Sunday morning, sending thick smoke billowing through the quiet neighborhood and leaving twelve residents with injuries ranging from minor smoke inhalation to burns.
Residents at the three-story building on Carroll Street were jolted awake at approximately 3:15 a.m. by crackling flames and the shrill wail of fire alarms. Within minutes, descending smoke and flames forced tenants to flee up narrow stairwells to safety. Neighbors reported seeing orange tongues of fire lick at basement windows before firefighters arrived.
“We smelled something burning and heard shouting,” recalled Maria Lopez, a fourth-floor resident. “When we opened our door, the hallway was full of smoke. We hurried downstairs, and the fire trucks were already pulling up.”
Fire crews from three engine companies arrived on scene within four minutes of the 911 call. They swiftly donned breathing apparatus and advanced hose lines into the basement, battling temperatures exceeding 800°F. After nearly thirty minutes of intense firefighting, the blaze was declared under control. A mop-up operation continued into the early morning hours to extinguish lingering hot spots.
Twelve occupants were treated at local hospitals. Ten were released after receiving oxygen therapy for smoke inhalation, while two sustained moderate burns and remained under observation. Hospital officials described all injuries as non life-threatening. Paramedics also treated a firefighter for heat exhaustion, who was later cleared to return to duty.
“This was a textbook rapid response by our department,” said Fire Chief Lisa Montgomery. “Mutual aid companies arrived promptly, and teamwork prevented the fire from spreading to upper floors, likely averting a far worse outcome.”
Investigators from the Fire Marshal’s office continue to determine the fire’s origin. Early indications suggest an electrical malfunction in a basement storage area may have ignited nearby cardboard boxes. No evidence of foul play has been found, and the building’s smoke detectors were confirmed operational. Still, authorities urge residents to ensure combustible materials are stacked away from electrical panels and to test alarms monthly.
The six-unit brick building houses a mix of long-term tenants and recent arrivals. While the basement fire singed storage lockers and utility wiring, structural damage was contained. Building management arranged temporary accommodations for displaced residents and has scheduled an electrician to inspect all units.
Local community groups rallied support as news spread. Volunteers delivered water, snacks, and blankets, while a nearby church opened its doors as a warming center. “In times of crisis, neighbors look out for neighbors,” said Pastor Andre Kim. “We are grateful no lives were lost and stand ready to help families get back on their feet.”
Traffic on Carroll and Baltic Streets was diverted for two hours as crews cleared fire hoses and debris. By mid-morning, clean-up was complete and roadways reopened. Residents returning to their apartments encountered a scent of smoke but no lasting ash or water damage above grade.
The incident underscores the perils of basement fires, which can smolder undetected until they erupt violently. Fire safety experts recommend keeping hallways and egress routes clear, installing live-in CO detectors alongside smoke alarms, and never overloading extension cords.
As inspectors finalize their report, tenants are breathing easier—both literally and figuratively. With repairs scheduled and community support strong, Greenwood Heights residents are already planning a block-wide safety meeting to share fire-prevention tips and ensure preparedness for any future emergencies.
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