Brooklyn, NY (September 18, 2025) – Late Wednesday night, September 17, a massive five-alarm fire tore through a large waterfront warehouse in Red Hook, Brooklyn, leaving two firefighters with sustained injuries and the historic structure with extensive damage.
According to the FDNY, the blaze broke out inside the warehouse on Van Brust Street around 11:30 p.m. Flames quickly spread through the building, forcing firefighters to battle the inferno from both land and water, with Marine 9 assisting from the harbor. Fire crews remained on the scene through Thursday as they worked to fully contain hot spots.
Chief of Operations Kevin Woods confirmed that the building sustained catastrophic damage, including a collapsed roof and fourth floor. Structural engineers are expected to evaluate the site due to the extent of the destruction. The building, which dates back to 1870, had been converted into artist studios and was preparing to host the “Red Hook Open Studios” event next month. Between 50 and 100 artists were believed to have worked in the space.
Fortunately, no civilians were inside at the time of the blaze, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
We wish the injured firefighters a swift recovery and hope that those impacted by the fire receive the support they need during this difficult time.
Common Injuries in Brooklyn Building Fires
Building fires in Brooklyn often result in a wide range of injuries due to the intensity of flames, smoke, and structural damage. Firefighters, residents, and bystanders can all be affected when a blaze breaks out in residential, commercial, or industrial properties.
Smoke inhalation is one of the most frequent injuries seen in Brooklyn fires. Toxic fumes from burning materials can quickly overwhelm occupants, leading to respiratory distress, lung damage, and long-term breathing difficulties. Even brief exposure to heavy smoke may cause lasting health problems.
Burn injuries also remain a serious risk. Victims may suffer from first- to third-degree burns depending on how long they were exposed to heat or flames. Severe burns often require hospitalization, skin grafts, or long-term rehabilitation. Firefighters in particular face a higher risk of burn injuries when battling intense blazes or when protective gear is compromised.
Falls and crush injuries are another concern, especially when structural collapses occur in older Brooklyn buildings. Roofs, floors, and stairwells can give way, trapping victims beneath heavy debris. These types of injuries often result in broken bones, spinal trauma, or internal damage.
Additionally, many people experience secondary injuries such as lacerations from shattered glass, head injuries from falling objects, or heat-related illnesses like dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Recovering from fire-related injuries can be a long process, often involving extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and emotional support. Seeking prompt medical care and understanding legal options for compensation are crucial steps toward recovery after a Brooklyn building fire.
At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, our mission is to protect the rights of individuals and families who have suffered losses due to fires and property damage in Brooklyn and throughout New York City. Our New York personal injury attorneys guide clients through every stage of the process, from gathering evidence and assessing damages to seeking the full compensation they deserve for medical costs, property losses, and other fire-related expenses.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a residential fire, don’t wait to take action. Call 866-478-3465 today to arrange a free consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to advocate for you, safeguard your rights, and help you take the next steps toward recovery with confidence.
Notes: The information in this accident news post is gathered from secondary sources, including official police and fire department reports, media coverage, and eyewitness statements. Our team at Keith D. Silverstein & Associates has not independently verified all details. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact us so we can make prompt corrections. Should you wish for this post to be removed, we will honor your request as quickly as possible.
Disclaimer: These posts are meant to highlight the dangers of serious accidents in our region and promote safer driving. Photos used are not from the actual scene. This content is not legal or medical advice and is not intended as a solicitation for business.
