Overview:
A three-alarm fire on New York City’s Upper East Side left residents shaken after reports of a loud explosion. The blaze tore through a six-story apartment building, displacing families and injuring three firefighters. Officials are investigating the cause.
Manhattan, NY — August 15, 2025
Residents of New York City’s Upper East Side reported hearing a powerful explosion Friday morning before a three-alarm fire engulfed a six-story apartment building at 305 E. 95th St., between Second and First Avenues.
According to the FDNY, crews were called just after 10 a.m. to battle the flames on the building’s roof. The fire quickly spread into the cockloft and three penthouses, sending bright orange flames and black smoke into the sky. More than 170 first responders from 40 units, including EMS – dispatch to the scene.
➡️ Source: CBS News New York – Upper East Side Fire Coverage
Assistant Chief:
Deputy Assistant Chief James Canty confirmed that three firefighters sustained minor injuries while working to contain the fire. Fortunately, all residents were able to escape the building safely.
➡️ Source: CBS News New York – Upper East Side Fire Coverage
Neighbors described the terrifying moments when the blaze began.
- “The entire building shook. I actually thought a truck drove into the building—or even an earthquake,” said resident Anna Neverova.
- “It was just a boom, an explosion,” recalled Bienvenida Rodriguez, 80, who lost nearly all her belongings in the fire.
- “I was in a light sleep, and I heard a boom, like a loud explosion, then people screaming, ‘Get out, get out,’” added Devan Amabile.
Click on CBS link for Helicopter aerial coverage at scene
➡️ Source: CBS News New York – Upper East Side Fire Coverage
The NYC Office of Emergency Management urged nearby residents to keep their windows closed due to smoke and warned of traffic disruptions in the area. The Department of Buildings dispatched inspectors to evaluate structural stability, and gas was shut off in the building as a precaution.
The American Red Cross is now assisting displaced residents. Rodriguez, who narrowly escaped with her dog, expressed both grief and gratitude: “I lost everything up there—45 years. But I’m grateful to be alive to celebrate my 81st birthday next week.”
➡️ Source: CBS News New York – Upper East Side Fire Coverage
Authorities confirmed the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
