The FDNY says a fire that started late Monday night in Ocean Hill left nine people injured, including six firefighters and three residents.

The blaze began around 10:40 p.m. at 2411 Dean Street and quickly spread through the cocklofts, affecting four adjacent buildings.

The fire caused extensive damage, including the collapse of the roof in the building where the fire started.

The Red Cross says they are assisting 31 individuals who have been displaced by the disaster.

Victims reported being helped by their neighbors who helped rescue them.

Emergency crews worked through the night and into the morning to contain the blaze and assess the damage.

The fire was burning so hot, and the smoke was so intense, that neighbors who live across the street say they woke up coughing, thinking it was their own home on fire.

"I live over here, and I woke up I smelled the smoke through my closed window," said neighbor Monica White.

News 12 obtained a copy of a 311 complaint against the property where the fire started. The complaint claims there was faulty and illegal electrical work.

However the New York City Department of Buildings tells News 12 they sent an inspector to the unit after that complaint in early August prior to the fire, where they did not find evidence of the misconduct alleged in the complaint.

The fire marshal's office is still continuing their investigation into the source of the fire.

Residents who are now homeless as a result declined to go on camera, but told News 12 they are hearing it could be nine months to a year before they are able to return.