Two Dead as FDNY Battles Harlem Apartment Fire

An overnight five-story apartment building fire in Harlem left two dead and multiple people injured as fire and smoke filled the building prior to FDNY crews arriving.

The fire started on the third floor and made its way to the upper floors, filling the building with smoke. Tenants resorted to using fire escapes as fire conditions hampered traditional means of egress.

Firefighters stretched lines and raised aerial ladders to gain access to the fire while assisting residents from the building using ground ladders and fire escapes.

Crews were able to locate multiple victims and bring them to medical personnel. Heavy clutter and smoke conditions made operations difficult, according to an FDNY spokesperson.