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Inwood Apartment Fire Kills 3, Injures 14, Doors Blamed

5/5/2026

39 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A fire engulfed a six-story Inwood apartment building on May 4, 2026, killing three and injuring fourteen.
Fire officials warned that open doors increased damage and urged residents to keep doors closed.
FDNY Chief John Esposito said the blaze started on the first floor and raced up the sole stairwell.
Nearly 200 responders worked until 3 a.m., leading to a full-vacate order and Red Cross aid for about 100 displaced residents.

History

Historical Context

The November 21, 1980 MGM Grand fire in Paradise, Nevada killed 85 people after open doors and a stairwell fed smoke throughout the 26-story tower, prompting the National Fire Protection Association to revise NFPA 101 in 1981. FDNY Chief John Esposito cited the same door-ajar failure during the May 4, 2026 Inwood blaze, urging stricter closure rules and upgraded escape designs.

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Story summary

A fire engulfed a six-story Inwood apartment building on May 4, 2026, killing three and injuring fourteen.
Fire officials warned that open doors increased damage and urged residents to keep doors closed.
FDNY Chief John Esposito said the blaze started on the first floor and raced up the sole stairwell.
Nearly 200 responders worked until 3 a.m., leading to a full-vacate order and Red Cross aid for about 100 displaced residents.

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