An explosion injured seven firefighters responding to a car and trash fire in the Bronx on Wednesday, according to FDNY officials.
Authorities said they received multiple calls around 7 p.m. for a fire on Westchester Avenue near Kelly Street in Longwood. Firefighters arrived to find multiple cars and rubbish piles ablaze, officials said.
The FDNY is investigating what caused the explosion, which left five firefighters with serious burns to their hands and faces. Officials said the injuries were not life-threatening and three of the firefighters were admitted to Jacobi Hospital.
"Our firefighters are awake, alert and speaking, but they have some serious burns, and we'll be praying for them," FDNY Chief John Esposito said in a statement.
The aftermath of the car explosion in the Bronx on Nov. 5, 2025
Firefighters brought the blaze under control by around 8:20 p.m., authorities said.
A video posted on the Citizen app appeared to show a ball of flames lighting up the night sky, with smoke billowing as multiple fire engines responded. Another video showed a charred car and debris left behind after the fire was extinguished.
New York City Emergency Management warned of road closures, traffic delays and emergency vehicles in the area as first responders addressed the situation.
Debris was strewn around the site of the explosion.
Rep. Mike Lawler, who represents parts of Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties, acknowledged the incident on social media, saying he was praying for the firefighters.
"These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect New Yorkers," he said.
Andrew Giambrone contributed reporting. This story has been updated with additional information.
