Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Dozens Injured in Inferno Near Yankee Stadium




A six-alarm blaze erupted overnight in the Bronx, sending scores of families into the streets and injuring dozens of people, including 31 firefighters.

The fire at the six-story landmark building, which has 180 apartments and about 600 residents, broke out shortly after midnight at 975 Walton Ave. near Yankee Stadium. 

Three residents were injured along with the firefighters. The FDNY said most of the injuries were related to heat exposure or were scrapes and bruises, and all are believed to be minor. One captain experienced chest pain.

More than 200 firefighters battled the blaze during the hot and humid night. A fire chief said it began in a sixth-floor apartment in the back of the building and spread to three other units. One wall partially collapsed and flames could be seen leaping from the roof before firefighters contained it around 5 a.m.

Fire officials caution that though the blaze is controlled, it is still active due to several hot spots.

It wasn't immediately known how many people were inside the building when the fire started. Fire officials say everyone has been accounted for.  

The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Office of Emergency Management says 66 units were damaged in the inferno.

The Red Cross is assisting residents who might need emergency shelter or food. Forty families have already registered with the organization.










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