Tragic Fire in the Bronx Claims One Life and Injures Multiple

An intense fire erupted in a first-floor apartment at 65 Jesup Place, Mount Eden, resulting in the death of an 85-year-old man and injuries to ten others. Firefighters had to improvise when a smart car obstructed their access; they lifted it by hand from the scene and towed a Jeep blocking a hydrant, which may lead to criminal charges and fines of up to $5,000 for the vehicle owner.

The fire, classified as a two-alarm incident, began around 9:30 p.m. and prompted over 100 first responders to the scene. The elderly victim was rushed to Harlem Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Two other victims, a man and a woman in their 40s and 70s, were hospitalized in stable condition, while three firefighters were treated for minor injuries.

Residents reported smoke and fire alarms and described a panicked evacuation. One resident, Richard Hagood, 61, noted that the victim, known as “Birdman,” was a bird feeder and hoarder whose apartment was cluttered and dark. Hagood smelled smoke through the pipes and alerted others as the fire intensified. He also mentioned prior complaints about smoke odors from the deceased’s apartment, which were previously checked but yielded no findings.

Many residents, including newcomer Taraja Rooks, 46, who moved into the building three months ago, described the frightening experience of escaping thick, black smoke. She witnessed emergency crews attempting resuscitation on the victim and believed he was dead before being transported away in an ambulance.

Another resident, Miguelina Fernandez, was trapped inside her unit due to the fire but was rescued via window. She suffered a fall and injured her knee, recalling her fear and desperation.

The investigation into the fire’s cause is ongoing, with fire marshals examining the scene. Authorities continue to support the displaced residents, who were evacuated to the sidewalk for safety.