Videos Show Massive New York Blaze as Firefighters Injured, Fire Spreads

Ten firefighters suffered injuries while battling a massive fire in New York City on Sunday, according to local reports.

The 5-alarm fire in Brooklyn's Williamsburg neighborhood began just before noon Sunday morning and affected a total of nine businesses, most of which were locked up, New York City Fire Chief John Hodgens said during a press conference at about 3:45 p.m. ET.

The injured firefighters were in stable condition, Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said during the press conference. Kavanagh said the fire was under control, though crews were still working Sunday afternoon.

Hodgens said the challenging conditions of the fire made it more difficult for firefighters to battle the blaze.

"Most of them were locked up, so the firefighters had to work very hard to get into them. We used saws. We cut the gates, and they were able to get in. They had heavy fire throughout the building by time they got inside. It is a challenging fire due to the hot weather," he said.

Authorities urged residents to avoid areas with smoke and to close their windows if they are in the vicinity of the blaze. Traffic delays were also expected as firefighters continued working at the scene, according to Notify NYC. More information about the fire, including the cause, remained unknown Sunday afternoon.

Videos posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, showed the massive blaze burn through Brooklyn. One video showed billows of smoke rise from the burning building over the Brooklyn Expressway.

Meanwhile, video posted to X by Freedom News TV showed firefighters working to extinguish the fire.

New York City Councilmember Lincoln Restler showed video of some of the damage caused by the fire.

"Tragic day in the heart of South Williamsburg. 5 alarm fire has destroyed several beloved local businesses on Lee Ave. Spoke to 3 of the business owners & property owner and we will do everything we can to help each and every business and their workers get back on their feet," he posted to X.

In the video, Restler said several of the neighborhood's favorite shops were destroyed in the fire, leaving dozens without jobs. He pledged that local officials would do their best to help in the recovery effort.

Newsweek reached out to the New York City Fire Department for comment via email.

According to the New York Daily News, the building where the fire began houses residential units, a grill and other businesses in addition to the chocolate shop.

No civilian injuries had been reported.

New York state Senator Julia Salazar posted to X: "We are aware of a serious fire in south Williamsburg right now, on Lee Ave between Keap & Hooper St. FDNY has responded and is still at the scene. Please avoid the area to be safe. We're ready to support folks who are affected by the fire and smoke."

Update 08/20/2023, 4:03 p.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information.

Update 08/20/2023, 4:34 p.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information.