A massive vehicle explosion in the Bronx injured seven firefighters on Wednesday evening, sending a huge fireball into the night sky after a trash fire spread to parked cars.
Firefighters were dispatched to Westchester Avenue in the Longwood section around 7 p.m. on November 5, 2025, following reports of garbage and debris on fire. The flames quickly spread to several cars, creating a hazardous situation. As crews began their response, the fire intensified, leading to a dangerous escalation that required immediate action.
Shortly after arrival, a significant explosion occurred, producing a large fireball that engulfed the area. Video footage captured the blast sending flames and thick black smoke shooting into the sky, startling residents and highlighting the intensity of the moment. The explosion injured seven FDNY firefighters, with five sustaining serious burns to their hands and faces due to their proximity to the blast.
Three of the injured firefighters were admitted to Jacobi Medical Center for treatment of their burns, which officials described as serious but not life-threatening. FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito confirmed that all seven are awake, alert, and speaking, and are expected to make a full recovery. He emphasized the constant dangers faced by firefighters in their daily duties across New York City.
Dr. Sheldon Teperman, who assisted in treating the firefighters, highlighted their bravery and concern for colleagues. “I was talking to each of your members. You know, a wall of fire came on them and surrounded them, and what they were concerned about is their colleagues and their families,” he said, praising their selflessness under extreme stress and the strong bonds within the firefighting community.
Eyewitness Liza Almonte, who was in a nearby building, described the terrifying experience. “I’m like, how am I going to get out? That’s what I thought,” she recalled, noting the sudden appearance of the fireball outside her window. She expressed deep worry for the firefighters’ safety, observing how close they were to the explosion when it occurred.
The cause of the fire and explosion is under active investigation by authorities. Early witness accounts suggest a tossed cigarette may have ignited the trash, but this has not been officially confirmed. The incident has resulted in traffic delays and road closures around Fox Street and Westchester Avenue, and Engine 82 sustained some damage during the response efforts.
This event underscores the constant risks emergency responders face and the importance of public vigilance in fire prevention. The FDNY is reminding the community to properly dispose of smoking materials and other flammables to avoid similar tragedies, as the investigation continues to determine the exact cause and implement measures to prevent future incidents.