Gowanus fire forces families out, 2 people hurt
The fire started just before 10:30 p.m. at a home on 9th Street between 3rd and 4th avenues.
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A fire tore through a home in Gowanus late Wednesday night, leaving two people with minor injuries and forcing several families to evacuate.
The fire broke out around 10:30 p.m. at a three-story home on Ninth Street between Third and Fourth avenues. Firefighters worked quickly, using ladders to battle the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings. Officials say the fire started on the second floor and took about an hour to get under control.
One of the two people hurt was taken to the hospital but is expected to be OK. A neighboring building also suffered minor damage.
The Department of Buildings declared the home unsafe and issued a full vacate order, meaning no one can live there until repairs are made. The Red Cross is helping three families with emergency housing and financial aid.
Neighbors described the chaotic moments as fire crews rushed in.
“The street was covered up with fire trucks - I think three or four trying to stop the fire, said neighbor Liesa Witt. “It’s horrible how fast a fire can break out, Thankfully, the firefighters got here quickly.”
Officials are still investigating what caused the fire.
