Separate fires in Mill Basin, Midwood cause damage, no injuries

January 3, 2019 By Todd Maisel Special to the Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Firefighters battle a 2-alarm fire in a strip mall in Mill Basin Eagle photos by Todd Maisel

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Two separate fires in Mill Basin and Midwood on Saturday caused serious damage to seven businesses and a private home, fire officials said.

The first fire broke out shortly before 8 a.m. in a strip mall on Avenue U and East 65th Street. Fire officials believe the blaze in the ductwork passages of a laundromat and quickly spread to the ceiling and roof of the strip mall, reaching a neighboring liquor store, a restaurant and a card store.

Firefighters arrived to find smoke filling the entire strip and declared a second alarm, bringing in more than 50 firefighters and support personnel.

The fire was brought under control in 40 minutes, but by then three stores were heavily damaged and four others suffered smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported.

The second fire broke out around 4 p.m. at 1534 E. 17th St. in the attic rooms of a three-story Queen Anne style wood frame home.

Firefighters found heavy fire in the attic rooms, officials said. An all-hands with extra equipment was called to bring in additional resources to battle the fire.

Firefighters attempt to gain entry to an attic window filled with fire in Midwood.

The fire was brought under control by 4:35 p.m., with heavy damage to the interior from the fire, water and smoke that spread throughout the building. All occupants were able to get out of the house unharmed, officials said.

Officials suspect an electrical short may have caused this second fire. Both fires are under investigation by fire marshals.