Fire in Bronx NYCHA Building Caused by Lithium-Ion Battery; One Dead, Nine Injured

Accident – Death – Obituary News : THE BRONX – The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) has confirmed that a fire at a high-rise NYCHA apartment building in the Soundview section of the Bronx, which tragically resulted in one fatality and left nine others injured, was caused by a lithium-ion battery.

Emergency services responded promptly to the incident on Sunday, just after 7 p.m., dispatching a total of twenty units and 78 firefighters to 1440 Bronx River Ave., located between E. 174th St. and Cross Bronx Expressway.

According to officials, the fire originated on the 10th floor of the 14-story building. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a 39-year-old man unresponsive. Despite being transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, the individual sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Additionally, nine others were treated for minor injuries sustained during the incident, as confirmed by the FDNY.

During their investigation, firefighters discovered an e-bike at the entrance of the 10th floor apartment where the fire had started. It is believed that the lithium-ion battery of the e-bike was responsible for igniting the blaze.

The fire, which posed a significant threat to the safety of residents, was successfully brought under control by the FDNY just after 8:30 p.m., preventing further damage to the building.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in various electronic devices. It underlines the importance of proper usage, handling, and storage to prevent such devastating accidents.

In a similar incident that occurred in Brooklyn, a fire at a three-story building claimed the lives of three family members. The FDNY determined that the cause of the fire was also a lithium-ion battery, this time from an e-bike. The victims, 81-year-old Albertha West, her son 58-year-old Michael West, and her grandson 33-year-old Jamiyl West, tragically lost their lives. The incident highlights the need for heightened awareness and precautions when dealing with these batteries.

As investigations into both incidents continue, authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines when using and charging devices with lithium-ion batteries. Proper storage, regular maintenance, and avoiding the use of counterfeit or damaged batteries are crucial steps in preventing potential fires.

The FDNY, alongside other agencies, will work diligently to raise awareness about the safe handling and usage of lithium-ion batteries to prevent further tragedies in the future..