Overview
- A fire that broke out just before 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in an 11th‑floor Patterson Houses apartment in Mott Haven killed 11‑year‑old Zion Maine and left four family members hospitalized in critical condition.
- FDNY investigators confirmed an e‑bike’s lithium‑ion battery ignited in the apartment kitchen and that the device had been stored and charging near the front door, a placement that blocked the family’s escape.
- Fire officials warned that lithium‑ion cells can enter thermal runaway and cause fires to spread rapidly, and they say the city has seen more than 400 battery‑related fires so far in 2026 with rising injuries and deaths compared with last year.
- NYCHA and city leaders have pledged support for the family, are conducting building assessments, distributing safety guidance and have said they will review NYCHA charging rules and consider expanded regulated charging options.
- Residents held vigils for the child while advocates and officials note many tenants rely on e‑bikes for work, raising questions about enforcement of existing NYCHA charging rules and the need for safe charging infrastructure.