Massive Sunset Park fire ruled accidental, caused by unattended candle, says FDNY
The massive six-alarm fire that engulfed 702 44th Street, displaced over 50 families, injured firefighters and civilians, and killed pets was due to an unattended lit candle, according to the FDNY.
“FDNY fire marshals have determined that the April 3, 2019, 6-alarm fire at 702 44th Street in Brooklyn was accidental, caused by an unattended candle,” FDNY posted on its Facebook page on Monday, July 8. “Four civilians suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the fire, and 23 firefighters suffered injuries ranging from smoke inhalation to burns. Dozens of families were displaced. FDNY urges New Yorkers to NEVER leave burning candles unattended. Place candles at least four feet away from all combustibles, including curtains and bedding, and consider using battery-operated, flameless candles instead.”
Tenants already had an inkling of the cause of the conflagration, one said.