Gas Buildup Suspected in Upper East Side Apartment Fire, Four Injured

New York, NY – A powerful explosion and subsequent three-alarm fire rocked a seven-story apartment building on Manhattan's Upper East Side on Friday, August 15, 2025, sending thick plumes of black smoke across the city skyline. The incident, which occurred shortly after 10 a.m. at 305 East 95th Street, prompted a massive emergency response and resulted in minor injuries to four individuals, including three firefighters and the building's superintendent.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud "boom" or "explosion" just before flames erupted from the building. "I heard an explosion from my building just opposite the fire, and looked outside and saw all the smoke in the skies," Joann Sowma told the Daily Mail. The blast quickly escalated into a significant blaze, primarily affecting the building's rooftop, cockloft, and three penthouses on the uppermost level.

Over 170 firefighters and EMS personnel from the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) swiftly responded to the scene, working to contain the fire and prevent its spread to adjacent structures. Deputy Assistant Chief James Canty confirmed that units arrived within four minutes and were able to contain the fire to the original building. The operation was challenging due to the summer heat, which can cause firefighters to overheat in their gear.

Preliminary reports from ABC 7 suggest the fire was sparked by a buildup of gas in the building’s basement, though FDNY officials stated the cause remains under investigation. The building's superintendent, who was in the basement at the time of the incident, sustained minor injuries and is receiving treatment. Three firefighters also suffered minor injuries while battling the blaze.

New York City Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, Kaz Daughtry, urged residents to avoid the area, praising the "amazing job" by first responders in securing the scene. The American Red Cross is assisting residents displaced by the fire. Authorities continue to investigate the exact sequence of events that led to the explosion and fire, with structural stability assessments pending for the 1910-built apartment complex.