More than 30 people are out of their homes on this frigid day after a fire that ripped through several buildings in Richmond Hill, Queens. NY1's Tara Lynn Wagner has the story.
Dozens of people found themselves forced into the cold Saturday night as a massive fire spread up and down this block of Liberty Avenue.
"Depressed," said Sandra Barbat. "Very depressed. There was nothing we could save. We had to run."
Officials believe the fire began at the Ace Market, toward the rear of the 100-year-old building, and quickly spread in both directions. Firefighters combed the second floors, evacuating residents, and leading to at least one narrow escape.
One of the members got trapped in the rear and had to use his personal safety system to get out after he gave me a mayday.
That PSS — as the department calls it — allowed him to safely rappel down the side of the building. Officials say the equipment saved his life.
Although it wasn't very windy, frigid temperatures made fighting the fire all the more difficult. Water being used to douse the flames froze on every surface, coating the street and sidewalk in a sheet of ice.
"We had to get Sanitation sanders," said FDNY Deputy Chief James Didomenico. "You have tripping hazards. We had to rotate people because it's extremely cold and bitter."
Five people suffered minor injuries including three firefighters. Local residents say the smoke could be seen and smelled blocks away.
It was all down the block. You came out the front door and the smoke goes into the house. It was intense.
The Red Cross says they are assisting eight families, altogether totaling 31 people. As for the businesses on this block, they remain closed.
"I feel worse for the landlords," said tenant Judy Rackal. "They live upstairs. Terrible."
Over 250 firefighters and EMS workers responded to the 7-alarm blaze. Although it was under control overnight, small pockets continued to flare up late into the morning. Officials believe its likely 5 or 6 buildings will have to be demolished.