20 People Hurt, More Than 400 Displaced After Inferno In Jackson Heights

More than 20 people were hurt and hundreds more displaced after a fire Tuesday tore through an apartment in Jackson Heights, Queens.

The FDNY said the blaze was finally under control by late Wednesday morning and they could begin their investigation.

The fire broke out around 1 p.m. Tuesday on the sixth floor of a 133-unit building at 89th Street and 34th Avenue. Witnesses reported seeing smoke and flames bellowing from windows.

FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro told CBS New York that the fire was agitated by an open door at the scene, making conditions that much more challenging for responders.

"The occupant fled but left the door open. We've stressed over the years the seriousness of that. If you do unfortunately have a fire in your home or apartment, how important it is to close that door, because the fire spread out into the hallway," Commissioner Nigro said.

From the hallways the flames advances into the area between the ceiling and the roof, engulfing the top of the building.

At least 21 people were hurt, including 16 firefighters. All the injuries are non-life threatening and all residents are accounted for.

All 133 units in the building were damaged, and over 400 people were displaced, many of whom were low-income essential workers already dealing with fallout from COVID-19 in their community.

A GoFundMe campaign to benefit those displaced has already raised over $93,000 towards its $250,000 goal. You can go here to donate.

The community is also holding an essential item drive to provide residents with necessary PPE, as well as toiletries, hygiene products, food and blankets. Go here for a list of items needed and where to donate.

Photo: Getty Images


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