Available 
Elmhurst, NY (February 10, 2026) – A deadly house fire tore through a residence in the Elmhurst section of Queens Monday evening, leaving one person dead and a child in critical condition. The fire broke out just before 7 p.m. at a home located at 83-32 Dongan Avenue, quickly spreading from the first floor to the upper levels and extending to neighboring buildings on both sides.
Key Details
- Incident Type: Residential fire with fatalities and injuries
- Location: 83-32 Dongan Ave, Elmhurst, Queens
- Reported: February 9, 2026, just before 7:00 p.m.
- Fatalities: One person confirmed deceased
- Injuries: One child in critical condition; one resident with life-threatening injuries; five residents and two firefighters with minor injuries
What We Know So Far
- The fire started on the first floor and rapidly spread upward and to adjacent homes.
- More than 200 fire and EMS personnel responded to battle the flames and assist victims.
- A firefighter fell through the first-floor structure during operations and was rescued by fellow crews.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The official cause of the fire.
- The extent of damage to neighboring buildings.
- Whether additional residents required treatment after the initial response.
Local Context
Residential blocks in Elmhurst often feature closely spaced homes, which can allow fires to spread rapidly once flames break through a structure. In this part of Queens, large-scale fire responses frequently involve extensive manpower and prolonged operations to protect surrounding properties and residents.
What to Do Next
- Move to a safe location immediately and avoid reentering a fire-damaged building.
- Follow instructions provided by fire officials and building authorities at the scene.
- Document visible damage and note the time and location once it is safe to do so.
- Monitor for smoke-related symptoms and seek medical care if breathing issues or other concerns develop.
FAQ
Q: Why do residential fires sometimes spread so quickly?
A: Fires can spread rapidly due to open floor plans, combustible materials, and close proximity to neighboring structures, especially in dense urban areas.
Q: Why are firefighters sometimes injured during major fires?
A: Firefighters face hazards such as structural collapse, extreme heat, and limited visibility while performing rescues and fire suppression.
Q: What does it mean when a fire is under investigation?
A: An investigation involves examining the scene, fire patterns, and other evidence to determine how the fire started and spread.
