The site of a fatal fire in Williamsbridge yesterday had previously been issued a violation for an illegal conversion, according to the Department of Buildings.

Officials say the property owner was cited in 2004, but the apartment conversion was ruled not hazardous at the time. Now neighbors and friends of Algie "Junior" Allen say his death could have been prevented.

Allen, 60, lived in a basement apartment with no windows at 1120 East 225th St. Firefighters say smoke filled the basement and made it difficult to fight the fire.

Allen was pronounced dead at the scene while his niece, who also lived in the apartment, was taken to Montefiore Medical Center in critical condition.