12:45am. 161 Division Ave, Brooklyn; Firefighters responded to an ALL-Hands fire. The fire began in the basement of an apartment complex. Firefighters searched the building and did not find any injured occupants.
Initially Firefighters were called to a report of smoke coming from an apartment, but on further inspection they discovered a fire coming from the basement. After roughly 15 minutes the fire was declared under control.
Firetrucks and police continued to surround the area on Division avenue while a large group of pedestrians observed. Pedestrians and police had several confrontations, specifically over many moving in front of the scene.
Police taped-off the area following FDNY’s departure. According to police at the scene this is due to the area being deemed unsafe. They stated that it will be investigated and tested for structural integrity.
The location contains both residential and retail space. Brunch Caterers is located in the retail section and it appeared to be the most effected by the fire. As with most basement fires, it is likely it was able to grow due to cardboard boxes and flammable materials being kept below.
No statement has been released about the cause of the fire. This will likely be released when the investigation has concluded.
