A fast-moving fire turned into a terrifying scene in Queens on Sunday after flames ripped through multiple homes, injuring 14 people — including a dozen firefighters who were caught in the chaos.
The blaze broke out just before 3 p.m. along 93rd Street in East Elmhurst, quickly spreading between homes near Astoria Boulevard and 30th Avenue. Fueled by strong winds, the fire intensified within minutes, forcing a massive emergency response.
According to the FDNY, what started as a house fire rapidly escalated into a four-alarm inferno, drawing around 230 firefighters and EMS personnel to the scene.
Officials say the flames moved so aggressively that some firefighters found themselves trapped above the fire shortly after arriving.
In a desperate effort to survive, crews were forced to act fast. One firefighter had to deploy a personal escape rope to get out, while others scrambled down portable ladders from upper floors as the fire surged beneath them.
“This fire turned very, very quickly,” FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said. “It became a very serious situation for us, causing our members to have to escape to save their own lives with very little time to think.”
In total, 12 firefighters were hospitalized, including three with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Nine others suffered minor injuries. Two residents were also hurt and taken to the hospital.
Fire officials say the blaze started in the rear of one building and was pushed forward by heavy winds, making it extremely difficult to contain.
By the time it was brought under control, two homes had suffered major damage, a third was partially impacted, and a garage in the back was completely destroyed.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Likely Democrat junkie fell asleep while smoking…