FDNY: Cigarette caused fire that hurt 7 firefighters in Longwood
Fire marshals say the careless disposal of a cigarette butt sparked the initial flames.
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A lit cigarette was determined to be the cause of a fire that led to a car explosion in Longwood, according to the FDNY.
Fire marshals say the careless disposal of a cigarette butt sparked the initial flames.
Video surveillance obtained by News 12 captured the moment of what appeared to be a person who tossed a lit cigarette onto the sidewalk in front of 1000 Fox St on Wednesday night.
The cigarette appeared to roll down the sidewalk into a pile of trash bags. A person then attempts to put out the small fire that quickly spread.
The FDNY says the cigarette butt lit nearby trash on fire, and the flames eventually spread to a nearby car, which then exploded.
Seven firefighters were injured in the fiery eruption. Five firefighters were treated for serious burns to their hands and face.
Witnesses told News 12 they saw firefighters thrown back when a loud bang sent flames shooting into the sky as people ran from the scene.
John Esposito, chief of Department for the FDNY, posted on X reminding New Yorkers to never flick cigarette butts.
"All of these injuries are non-life-threatening, and our members are expected to make a full recovery, if you are smoking, don't flick your cigarette butts. We remind all New Yorkers to properly dispose of your cigarettes before throwing them out," said Esposito.
The FDNY says all seven firefighters who were hurt are in stable condition.
The FDNY posted on X reminding New Yorkers to never flick cigarette butts.
