Khaberni - A massive fire broke out in a residential building in New York as a result of a gas explosion on Saturday, resulting in the death of one person and injuring 14 others, and led to the evacuation of about 150 homes amid extremely cold weather conditions.
The explosion caused the upper floors of the building to catch fire, necessitating the evacuation of about 150 homes as temperatures fell and a severe winter storm was expected to hit the city.
Authorities said that the fire department initially responded to complaints about a gas smell late on Friday night before the situation escalated into an explosion and ignited a widespread fire that spread across the 16th and 17th floors.
The area experienced chaotic and terrifying moments as residents tried to escape, with some describing how parts of the building fell and flames and thick smoke filled the stairwells, while some had to sleep in their cars due to the bitter cold.
Dr. John Esposito, Fire Department Chief, said that controlling the fire was "very dangerous," mentioning that some firefighters were briefly trapped inside an elevator during the search for trapped residents.
Officials reported that the investigation into the cause of the gas leak is still ongoing, noting that the building, constructed in 1969, was undergoing renovation as part of the federal PACT program which allows public buildings to be managed by private companies for improved maintenance and to provide the necessary funding for repairs.
Authorities confirmed that some residents have returned to their homes after getting the fire under control, while still 133 families need a warm shelter until their homes are fully secured, with support being provided by organizations such as the American Red Cross.
