The fire broke out around 10am local time. Photo credit: JimmyCsaid/X
A large fire broke out on Friday, August 15, at a seven-story apartment building located at 305 East 95th Street, between First and Second Avenues, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) received the emergency call at 10:04 a.m. and dispatched over 170 firefighters and EMS personnel to the scene.
The fire reportedly started on the roof of the building and spread to the cockloft and three penthouses on the top floor. Residents in the area reported hearing a loud explosion. Video footage posted to social media captured thick black smoke rising above the neighbourhood, which was visible from several blocks away.
Emergency responders quickly secured the area, with streets temporarily closed to allow crews to work safely. Firefighters utilised ladder trucks, rooftop access teams, and water supply connections to contain the blaze. The coordinated response prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. Three firefighters sustained minor injuries during the operation and were treated on site. The building’s occupants were safely evacuated, and no civilian injuries were reported. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have been caused by an accumulation of gas fumes in the basement, though officials have stated that the exact cause remains under investigation. The City Department of Buildings and fire marshals are assessing the structural stability of the roof and affected apartments to determine when residents can safely return.
Authorities confirmed that crews remained on site to carry out dampening operations and monitor for potential reignition. The FDNY stated that the area would remain cordoned off while investigations continue. City officials have assured nearby residents that air quality is being monitored and that no significant hazards have been detected.
In addition to fire containment, responders were also tasked with ensuring that water and power supplies in the affected building were safely disconnected. These precautionary measures are standard in high-rise fires to minimise further risk to crews and residents. The temporary displacement of tenants has prompted city agencies to coordinate support and temporary housing for those impacted. The incident required coordination between multiple emergency services, demonstrating the logistical challenges inherent in responding to fires in densely populated urban areas. Ladder teams, EMS personnel, and fire marshals all worked simultaneously to ensure the fire did not spread, while structural engineers assessed immediate safety concerns. Fire crews worked methodically to secure the building and prevent any further damage, while investigators continue to examine the cause and ensure the safety of displaced residents. Officials have pledged to provide updates once the building is deemed structurally sound and the investigation is complete.
