Overview

• FDNY crews arrived within minutes to a third-floor blaze at 2165 Ryer Avenue around 4 p.m. and brought it under control by 4:55 p.m.
• Twelve people, including multiple children, were hospitalized, with others treated for smoke inhalation and non-life-threatening injuries.
• Video and witnesses described neighbors climbing scaffolding and breaking windows to help evacuate children before firefighters reached the unit.
• Deputy Chief Andrew Holzmaier said clutter inside the apartment made searches difficult as crews rescued at least one occupant from inside.
• The Red Cross registered five apartments for assistance, with at least two families displaced and nearby businesses reporting smoke and water damage.