FDNY battles massive supermarket fire that spread to several buildings in Bushwick; 6 injured
BUSHWICK, Brooklyn (WABC) -- Firefighters battled a massive blaze that broke out at a supermarket and spread to surrounding buildings in Bushwick, Brooklyn Wednesday night, leaving six people injured and dozens displaced.
NewsCopter 7 was over the scene at 1385 Bushwick Avenue, where smoke and flames could be seen billowing from the supermarket, encompassing ladders that were extended from FDNY fire trucks.
FDNY officials say the fire started in the supermarket, which was open at the time, and then spread to four other buildings surrounding it. Residents say that the store is brand new and opened less than a year ago.
More than 250 firefighters responded to the scene within minutes.
Firefighters tried to enter the supermarket to put out the fire but quickly retreated, shifting to a surround and drown operation.
"We actually have probably the equivalent of a seven to eight alarm here," FDNY Assistant Chief Tom Currao said. "We went up to a fifth alarm and then on three successive occasions we called for more engines and two more ladders. So we were really trying to get ahead of this."
Officials say one of the challenges is the wood-framed construction.
FDNY officials say six people suffered minor injuries.
The Red Cross says they are currently assisting 55 residents and three pets.
For Natasha McCarthy, everything she owns went up in flames. She says she has no idea what she will do now.
Firefighters continue to battle the fire.
The cause is under investigation.
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