7-alarm fire in New York City injures 13, 2 civilians in critical condition, 10 firemen hurt

7-alarm fire in NYC injures 13, 2 critical

NEW YORK — Officials say 13 people, including 10 firefighters, have been injured in a seven-alarm fire on Manhattan’s Lower East Side that burned for more than four hours before being declared under control.

Fire Chief Edward Kilduff said two elderly residents were hospitalized in critical condition with smoke inhalation and a third was being evaluated. He said 10 firefighters were hurt, including one whose hands were burned. Nine others suffered minor injuries.

Officials say the fire started on the first floor of the mixed residential and commercial building and spread through a shaft to the roof before affecting two others buildings. More than 250 firefighters battled the blaze that was declared under control at 2:20 a.m. Monday.

Officials say the Red Cross is helping the 50 to 60 families that were displaced.