Himalaya Harbinger Bureau, Rudrapur.
A massive fire erupted at a residential building in Harlem, New York, resulting in the unfortunate demise of a 27-year-old Indian man, Fazil Khan. The incident occurred on Friday, leaving 17 others injured. Fazil Khan, a graduate of the prestigious Columbia Journalism School, succumbed to injuries at a hospital after being rescued from the blazing building.
The fire, attributed to a lithium-ion battery in an e-bike, originated on the top floor of the Harlem apartment building, forcing desperate residents to jump out of windows to escape the intense flames. Witness Akil Jones recounted the harrowing scene, stating, “The fire was at the top, and people were jumping out of the windows.” Jones and his father narrowly escaped, carrying only a phone and keys.
Fire Department Chief John Hodgens highlighted the severity of the situation, explaining that the fire’s intensity blocked stairwells on the third floor. A ‘full vacate’ order was promptly issued by the Department of Buildings, with the Red Cross stepping in to assist displaced residents with temporary housing at a nearby school.
The Indian Embassy in New York identified the victim as Fazil Khan and expressed its condolences in a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Saddened to learn about the death of 27-year-old Indian national Mr. Fazil Khan in an unfortunate fire incident in an apartment building in Harlem, NY.” The Consulate General affirmed that they are in contact with Khan’s family and friends, extending all possible assistance in repatriating his mortal remains to India.
Acknowledging the tragic incident, the Consulate General remarked, “We continue to extend all possible assistance in reparation of his mortal remains to India.” The Indian Consulate General in New York assured ongoing support to Khan’s family during this difficult time.
In the aftermath of the fire, a thorough investigation is expected to shed light on the exact circumstances leading to the blaze. Meanwhile, the community grapples with the loss of Fazil Khan and the injuries sustained by others in this heartbreaking event.
