Queens, NY – A fast-moving fire tore through a three-story building above a tire shop in Ridgewood, Queens, early Saturday, leaving nine people injured, including firefighters, children, and a pregnant woman. The blaze caused a partial collapse of the structure and displaced at least 25 residents from eight households.
Fire Breaks Out Above Tire Shop
Firefighters from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) responded to the building on Flushing Avenue, between Metropolitan Avenue and Woodward Avenue, around 4 a.m. after flames engulfed the three floors of the mixed-use structure. Windows on the storefront were blown out, and thick smoke made initial firefighting efforts challenging.
“When we do get hydrocarbon fires, which is basically a rubber fire or a fuel fire, we will use foam on it. Foam will aid us in smothering the material. It cuts off the oxygen to the fire, causes a faster extinguishment,” said FDNY Assistant Chief David Simms, explaining the difficulties caused by the burning tires.
According to officials, the fire originated in the tire shop on the ground floor and quickly spread upward, threatening residential units above. The stubborn nature of the blaze forced crews to switch from an interior attack to an exterior operation after part of the building’s rear collapsed.
“We had the business there for a lot of years and never has this happened before,” said Manuel Huacazaca, owner of the tire shop for seven years.
Injuries and Evacuations
Four firefighters and five tenants sustained minor injuries, while two children and a pregnant woman were also treated. All were expected to recover.
“I ran up to get my phone and I called 911, and it just happened very quickly,” said Jesus Maldonado, building manager. “I was concerned for all the people, concerned for my neighbors, I’ve known them for years. Everybody’s alive, and we’re happy about that. Everything else will fix itself.”
The fire displaced at least 25 people from eight households, including children. The American Red Cross is assisting families with temporary shelter and support as authorities assess damage to the building.
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
More than 100 FDNY members worked to extinguish the blaze, which took roughly three-and-a-half hours to bring under control. The burning tires presented a particular challenge, producing thick smoke and hydrocarbon flames. Foam was applied to smother the rubber fire and speed up extinguishment.
“When we do get hydrocarbon fires, which is basically a rubber fire or a fuel fire, we will use foam on it,” Simms said. “It cuts off the oxygen to the fire, causes a faster extinguishment.”
The partial collapse in the rear of the building forced firefighters to prioritize defensive operations to ensure their safety while containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.
Community Response and Recovery
Residents and neighbors praised the quick evacuation and the work of first responders.
“I was concerned for all the people, concerned for my neighbors, I’ve known them for years,” Maldonado said. “Everybody’s alive, and we’re happy about that.”
The building is scheduled to be evaluated next week to determine which areas can be salvaged and whether portions will require demolition. Meanwhile, local authorities and the Red Cross continue to support displaced residents, particularly families with children and vulnerable members.
Cause Under Investigation
The origin of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities are examining whether the blaze was accidental or related to equipment in the tire shop. Officials are urging tenants and business owners to remain vigilant about fire safety, particularly in buildings that combine commercial and residential uses.
Conclusion
The Ridgewood fire highlights the dangers posed by mixed-use buildings, especially when commercial operations involve flammable materials such as tires and fuel. While the fire caused injuries and displacement, the rapid response of FDNY personnel prevented further loss of life and contained the blaze to a single building.
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