NEW YORK: At least one person was killed and 36 others injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a dry dock facility in New York City’s Staten Island on Friday, erupting while firefighters were responding to a fire and attempting to rescue trapped workers, Reuters reported.
According to officials, emergency crews had rushed to the site following reports of a basement fire and two workers trapped inside the facility. However, the situation quickly turned critical when a sudden blast struck the area as firefighters were carrying out rescue efforts.
Among those injured were two firefighters, both of whom were shifted to hospital for treatment. Authorities said a fire marshal sustained serious injuries, including a fractured temple and brain bleeding, and was placed on a ventilator. Another firefighter remained in serious condition but was said to be showing signs of recovery.
Calling it a “complex and rapidly evolving emergency,” New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani commended the bravery of first responders for risking their lives during the operation.
“First responders did what they always do they ran toward danger so others could reach safety,” the mayor said while addressing reporters.
Officials have not yet disclosed the identity of the deceased, confirming only that the victim was a civilian.
Authorities said a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the explosion will begin after the fire is fully extinguished.
The incident occurred in the Richmond Terrace section of Staten Island, one of New York City’s five boroughs located across the harbor from Manhattan.
