QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) – Nearly 30 residents are facing homelessness after a fire ripped through a Queens residence on Monday, according to a local church organizing to help.
The residents, including families with children, “lost everything” in the fire that injured several people just before 12 p.m. Monday at a residence on 60th Road in Maspeth, according to officials and Esperanza de Vida Church.
“The flames raged for over 90 minutes before they were brought under control. While there were no fatalities, the living victims are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch,” church representatives wrote.
The Red Cross of Greater New York jumped in to help 28 people get resettled after the blaze – but locals are also pitching in toward a GoFundMe.
“In times of adversity like this, our community comes together to support those in need,” the GoFundMe reads. “Let's stand together, united in our compassion."
New York Assemblymember Juan Ardilla also delivered hygiene kits and socks to the displaced families.
“Although there were no fatalities, the living victims are still struggling to piece their lives together,” Ardilla said.
Authorities on Tuesday said the fire was an accident caused by electrical wiring.
A mother and her young children were rescued from the fire. Witnesses told PIX11 News the older child helped her little brother escape the burning building.
During the rescue, a firefighter was injured when he fell through a floor.
“It was really nerve-racking. The fire was right behind them as they were escaping, and then the moment they get out it just completely takes over the house, they got out within the perfect moment,” said witness Mars Marte.
Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter from Los Angeles who has covered local news for years. She has been with PIX11 since 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter.
