A five-alarm fire and explosion destroyed a five-story apartment building at 374 East 209th Street in the Norwood section of the Bronx, leaving three people dead and 45 victims homeless. According to WABC, investigators believe the incident began on the third floor, where the building suffered interior collapse and extensive damage.
Displacement and Housing Struggles for Norwood Residents
Forty-five people lost their homes in the blaze, which WABC reports resulted in the loss of both sentimental items and primary residences.
Ellese Falcon, who lived in a basement apartment with her husband and 15-year-old son, has spent the last week alternating between a hotel and her car. Falcon told WABC her hotel stay ends next Wednesday and she is currently unsure where her family will go.
Did You Know? It took investigators several days to recover all three bodies from the debris of the five-story apartment building.
Medical Service Dogs and Placement Barriers
Falcon reports that “red tape” and paperwork requirements are complicating her efforts to find new placement. A primary factor in this difficulty is her need to house four service dogs required for a medical condition.
While Falcon lived with 12 dogs in her basement unit, she has since re-homed eight of them. She told WABC, “They’re making it so impossible… what happens if we can’t get the paperwork? Do we stay in the street?”
Ongoing Investigation into the Cause
The cause of the explosion and subsequent fire remains under investigation. WABC notes that the most severe damage was concentrated on the third floor, which served as the suspected point of origin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people died in the Bronx apartment fire?
Three victims died in the fire, according to WABC.
Where did the fire likely start?
Investigators believe the fire began on the third floor of the building, where there was interior collapse and extensive damage.
How many people were left homeless by the explosion?
There were 45 victims who lost their homes in the incident.
What support systems should be prioritized for displaced families with medical service animals?
Worth a look