Early morning fire leaves one dead, families displaced in Mott Haven
Most residents were able to escape safely, but rescue crews say the man was found dead inside the building after the fire was brought under control.
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A man is dead after a fast-moving fire tore through a mixed-use building in Mott Haven early Wednesday morning, according to the FDNY.
Police have not yet identified the victim, but neighbors fear it's a man they've been searching for since the fire started in his home Wednesday morning.
"It's just heart-wrenching for all of us," Katherine Dailey said. "I'm just praying it's not him."
Firefighters rushed to 2592 Third Ave. around 5 a.m. after flames broke out inside a deli on the first floor of the building.
Officials say the fire quickly spread upstairs into apartments on the second floor, sending thick smoke pouring into the air as crews battled the flames from ladders.
More than 140 first responders were called to the scene as the fire escalated to a second alarm. The FDNY says three firefighters suffered minor injuries while battling the blaze.
Neighbors described waking up in panic as smoke filled the area.
“I thought my kids were burning something. I thought my house was on fire,” one woman told News 12. “So, I ran outside and saw the deli was up in flames.”
Most residents were able to escape safely, but rescue crews say the man was found dead inside the building after the fire was brought under control.
Families spent the morning gathered outside the damaged building, holding onto whatever belongings they were able to save while staring at the destruction left behind. The Red Cross is now assisting two families, including three children, find shelter for the night.
Fire marshals are still investigating what caused the blaze.
