This may have sparked the Bronx fire and massive explosion that injured 7 firefighters

This May Have Sparked the Bronx Fire and Explosion That Injured Seven Firefighters

A discarded cigarette might have triggered a massive explosion in the Bronx, sending a fireball into the night sky and leaving several firefighters injured.

How the Fire Started

Surveillance footage from Wednesday evening shows someone tossing a lit cigarette onto a sidewalk in the Longwood neighborhood. Strong gusts of wind appeared to push it into a pile of garbage, sparking a fire that quickly spread to several parked cars.

The Explosion

As firefighters worked to put out the flames, an explosion erupted on Fox Street near Westchester Avenue, sending a fireball several stories high.

Injuries and Damage

Seven firefighters sustained burns to their hands and faces. None of the injuries were life-threatening. All were taken to Jacobi Hospital for treatment, and two remained hospitalized Thursday evening.

The aftermath left the street covered in charred debris, and at least one car was completely destroyed, its remains towed away the next morning.

“It was my car that exploded,” a woman told NBC New York. “I lost two strollers and expensive car seats, so now I’m trying to figure out how to get around with my two toddlers.”

Community Response

Residents said the garbage should not have been left outside that evening. However, due to Election Day, trash collection had been delayed until Thursday, which may have contributed to the buildup of debris.

Author’s Summary

A stray cigarette, strong winds, and delayed trash collection combined tragically in the Bronx, resulting in an explosion that injured seven firefighters and left lasting damage.

NBC New York — 2025-11-07