Residents grapple with aftermath of Fox Street fire that killed 1, injured 7

Although the cause of the fire is still under investigation, a resident tells News 12 gas could be smelled before the fire started.

News 12 Staff

Jan 21, 2022, 10:36 PM

Updated 991 days ago

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The dust is still settling on Fox Street in the Bronx from a fire that ripped through multiple homes on the morning of Jan. 18. 
Apart from the demolition of the last home standing, the area is quiet as neighbors reflect on the damages. 
Although the cause of the fire is still under investigation, a resident tells News 12 gas could be smelled before the fire started. 
The fire killed 77-year-old Martha Dagbasta, who a resident tells News 12 they had known for around 20 years. 
He says this loss reminded him of his mother. Longtime residents say the recent fires in the borough, like the devastating Twin Parks tragedy, remind them of the 1970s when local organizations report that 80% of homes in the South Bronx went up in flames. 
Local health care groups like Essen Healthcare are offering free services for those impacted by the fire.