Upper East Side NYC Explosion Spurs Emergency Response as Firefighters Battle Blaze

On Friday morning, a significant fire erupted at an apartment building on Manhattan's Upper East Side, located at 305 East 95th Street. The fire, which began just after 10 a.m., quickly escalated to a three-alarm blaze. It originated on the roof of the seven-story structure and rapidly extended to the cockloft area—between the top-floor ceiling and the roof—and affected three penthouses. Despite the considerable threat posed by the fire, neighboring buildings were not impacted.

FDNY crews responded swiftly, arriving at the scene within minutes of receiving notice. Over 170 firefighters and emergency medical service personnel were deployed, utilizing approximately 40 response units. Deputy Assistant Chief James Canty reported that three firefighters suffered minor injuries during the operation. The building's superintendent, who was in the basement at the time, also sustained a minor injury.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, although residents have reported hearing an explosion prior to the sighting of thick, black smoke rising from the building. This prompted immediate action from those inside the building as safety measures were quickly put in place.

The New York City Office of Emergency Management advised residents in the vicinity to close their windows to prevent smoke inhalation and warned of potential traffic delays in the area due to ongoing emergency response operations. Additional support included crews containing the fire strictly to the affected building, preventing further spread to nearby structures. The Red Cross was also on-site to provide necessary support services.

The city's Department of Buildings noted that there was a partial stop-work order at the location. Further details regarding this order are currently being sought as inquiries continue.

While the fire has been largely contained, its cause remains unknown. Analysts predict that the investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the fire's origin on the roof and the reported explosion. This incident has prompted a significant emergency response and community concerns over fire safety and building compliance within such densely populated areas. FDNY remains active on the scene as they work to ensure the area is secure and further address the aftermath of this significant incident.