Fire in Flushing Displaces Families and Injures Over 20

Nearly two dozen people sustained injuries when a fire erupted in Flushing, Queens, on Saturday morning. Authorities reported the incident shortly before 10 a.m. on 41st Road, near College Point Boulevard.

5-Alarm Fire Engulfs Multiple Buildings

The fire originated on the first floor of a two-story, wood-frame home in a row of five buildings. Upon arrival, firefighters found two buildings fully involved in flames, with the fire having spread to a third nearby building. Chief of Fire Operations, Kevin Woods, highlighted the challenges posed by the wood construction. “These buildings date back to 1930, made entirely of wood. With wood walls, floors, and roofs, the fire spread rapidly, making containment and extinguishment difficult,” Woods explained.

At the height of the crisis, one resident needed rescuing from the second floor of the building where the fire began. Responding to the five-alarm fire were over 250 firefighters and EMS personnel. The situation is now under control, but FDNY personnel will remain onsite to check for hotspots.

Families Displaced and Injuries Reported

The fire resulted in at least 21 injuries, including 17 firefighters, two EMTs, and two residents of the affected buildings. All individuals have been transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. Woods specified that the injuries involved heat exhaustion, smoke inhalation, minor sprains, and strains. Another EMS official stated that one building resident was in serious condition, while another suffered less severe injuries.

The fire’s cause is currently unknown. Significant damage occurred to the buildings, leading to the displacement of multiple families. The Red Cross is actively assisting those affected. Local residents are advised to keep windows closed to avoid smoke exposure. Road closures and traffic disruptions are expected in the area.

Stay tuned to CBS News New York for updates on this unfolding situation.