Investigators say a fire that broke out in Crown heights on Monday afternoon took the life of 76-year-old Joseph Newkirk, a former NYPD officer.

The fire broke out at 1760 Union St. in a six-story building with dozens of residents just after 4 p.m. The fire started inside apartment 6B. Newkirk was pronounced dead at the scene.  

Neighbors told News 12 they were shocked to learn of Newkirk’s death, adding that he was a nice man and that they’re praying for his family.  

The FDNY’s Fire Safety Education Unit held an information session around the corner from the scene of the fire to bring awareness to fire safety in the community.