A major explosion and fire at a shipyard in Staten Island, New York City, has left one person dead and dozens injured, officials have confirmed. The incident began around 3:30 p.m. local time on Friday, with an explosion occurring approximately an hour later as emergency crews were battling the initial flames.
According to authorities, one civilian was killed and another injured in the blast. Additionally, 34 first responders were wounded, including a fire marshal in critical condition and a firefighter with serious injuries. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his condolences and praised the courage of the emergency services at a press conference late Friday.
The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) reported that firefighters had responded to a call about two workers trapped in a confined space within a dry dock. They discovered a fire in the basement of a metal structure at the rear of the shipping docks. Fire Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore noted that crews faced limited visibility and heavy smoke.
Dr. David Prezant, the FDNY's chief medical officer, provided details on the two most severely injured first responders. The fire marshal sustained head and brain injuries, including a small temporal fracture and a brain bleed, and is currently intubated. The firefighter, however, is recovering well. Dr. Prezant explained that both suffered from blast energy in a confined space, but thankfully have no penetrating injuries or organ damage.
Mayor Mamdani stated that over 200 first responders from across the city assisted at the scene. The fire was brought under control but remains an active scene. Multiple agencies, including hazmat teams, the Department of Buildings, and the Department of Environmental Protection, responded, alongside the New York Police Department.
New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul both expressed their support for the injured and thanked the FDNY for their response. Investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing, with state agencies coordinating with city officials.
