UFA: Engine Co. Reductions Hindered Response To Fatal Brooklyn Fire
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The Uniformed Firefighters Association is blaming manpower reductions for
Saturday's deadly fire in Brooklyn, but the fire department is disputing those claims.
UFA President Steve Cassidy says the reductions of engine company staffing implemented three weeks ago led to serious delays getting water on the fire.
The fire broke out inside an apartment building located at 346 East 29th Street in Flatbush Saturday.
The body of Mary Feagin, 64, was later discovered on the top floor.
The city Medical Examiner says the cause of death is pending further testing and investigation.
The New York City Fire Department says the five-alarm fire spread so quickly because someone left the door open in the apartment where it started.
Strong winds fanned the flames which took 200 firefighters more than nine hours to contain.
Sixty firefighters were injured, along with 11 residents.
The Red Cross is providing shelter for displaced families.