A severe fire affected Flushing, Queens, on Saturday, causing injuries to many and displacing families. The blaze was reported just before 10 a.m. on 41st Road near College Point Boulevard.

5-Alarm Fire Engulfs Buildings

Fire officials stated that the fire originated on the first floor of a two-story, wood-frame home among a row of five buildings. Upon arrival, firefighters found two structures fully engulfed, with flames spreading to a third, as explained by Chief of Fire Operations Kevin Woods.

“These buildings in this row of five … they were built in 1930, so they’re all wood. Wood-frame buildings,” Woods said. “The walls are wood, the floors are wood, the roof is also made of wood, so fire travels very, very rapidly. Very difficult for us to get ahead of these fires and extinguish.”

At least one resident needed rescue from the building where the fire began. The blaze escalated to five alarms, involving over 250 firefighters and EMS personnel. It was eventually contained, though the FDNY continues to monitor hotspots.

Families Displaced by the Blaze

Reports confirm 21 injuries, including 17 firefighters, two EMTs, and two residents. Victims have been hospitalized with non-life-threatening conditions. Injuries among firefighters included heat exhaustion, smoke inhalation, and minor sprains and strains.

An EMS official mentioned one resident in serious condition and another with less critical injuries. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire.

The blaze heavily damaged the buildings, leaving multiple families displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those affected. Local residents should close windows to avoid smoke exposure, and motorists should anticipate road closures and traffic delays in the vicinity.