Massive Fire Erupts on Manhattan’s Upper East Side Following Explosion
Residents of Manhattan’s Upper East Side were jolted awake Friday morning by a deafening explosion that sent shockwaves through the neighborhood.
Within minutes, thick plumes of black smoke rose high into the sky as flames engulfed the top of a six-story apartment building. Streets quickly filled with sirens as neighbors evacuated in panic, and dozens of firefighters rushed to contain the blaze.
Fire Breaks Out at 305 E. 95th Street
The fire broke out at a six-story residential building located at 305 E. 95th Street, between First and Second Avenues. Witnesses reported a loud explosion moments before the fire started.
The FDNY received the first emergency calls shortly after 10 a.m., reporting flames and heavy smoke emanating from the rooftop.
The blaze rapidly escalated to a three-alarm fire, drawing more than 40 fire units and nearly 170 firefighters and EMS personnel to the scene. Videos shared on social media captured intense orange flames shooting from the roof and thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Footage also showed firefighters battling the inferno from the rooftop as flames consumed the building’s upper structure.
Fire Spreads to Upper Units
FDNY Deputy Assistant Chief James Canty confirmed the fire spread to the cockloft—the narrow space between the ceiling and roof—as well as three penthouse units before crews were able to contain it. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries during the operation.
Nearby residents were warned by the New York City Office of Emergency Management to keep windows shut due to heavy smoke, and commuters were advised to expect traffic delays in the area.
City records indicate that the Department of Buildings had issued a partial stop-work order in 2015 for an illegally constructed cellar apartment in the building. Officials have not confirmed whether this played a role in the fire.
Conclusion
The Upper East Side fire rattled a typically calm neighborhood, leaving residents shaken and multiple firefighters injured. While crews acted swiftly to contain the flames and prevent further damage, investigators are still working to determine the cause of the explosion and fire.
City officials are expected to review the building’s history and compliance with safety regulations as part of the ongoing probe, leaving neighbors anxiously awaiting answers.