This may have sparked the Bronx fire and massive explosion that injured 7 firefighters

Possible Cause of Bronx Fire and Explosion

Incident Overview

The explosion in Bronx may have been ignited by a simple flick of a cigarette, which caused a fireball to rise into the sky and injured seven firefighters. Surveillance footage captures someone tossing a lit cigarette onto a sidewalk in the Longwood neighborhood. Strong wind then caught the cigarette, igniting debris and spreading fire to parked cars.

Firefighting Efforts and Explosion

As firefighters responded to extinguish the blaze, an explosion occurred on Fox Street near Westchester Avenue, resulting in a fireball that soared several stories high. The blast injured all seven firefighters, who sustained burns to their hands and faces. Fortunately, none of the injuries were life-threatening. Two firefighters remained hospitalized and recovering as of Thursday evening.

Aftermath of the Blast

Street debris was charred, with at least one vehicle unrecognizable after burning.
A woman reported that her car was the one that exploded, resulting in the loss of two strollers and expensive car seats.
The damaged vehicle was towed away the following morning.

Community Remarks and Context

Residents noted that trash was not supposed to be there, but due to Election Day, garbage collection was delayed until Thursday.

Author’s Summary

The Bronx explosion likely stemmed from a cigarette igniting trash, causing a fireball that injured firefighters and destroyed a vehicle, with community pickup delays contributing to the situation.

NBC New York — 2025-11-07