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Flushing, NY (March 16, 2026) – Three people, including a child, died after a major building fire broke out Monday afternoon in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens.
The incident was reported around 12:30 p.m. on March 16, at a mixed-use building along College Point Blvd near Avery Ave. The structure included a business on the ground floor with apartments located on the upper levels.
Emergency units entered the building while attempting to reach residents on the second floor. During the response, the interior staircase partially collapsed, briefly trapping two responders inside before they were freed.
Officials said three victims were later pronounced dead from their injuries. The victims included two adults and one child. Authorities have not yet released their identities.
Additional information about other possible injuries has not been confirmed. Crews worked for several hours before bringing the fire under control.
The incident remains under review by authorities. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Fires in Mixed-Use Buildings Can Spread Quickly
Buildings that combine commercial spaces and residential apartments can present unique fire risks. These properties often contain businesses on the ground floor with living areas above, creating multiple sources of ignition and different building layouts.
Commercial kitchens, electrical equipment, storage areas, and heating systems may increase the chance of a fire starting. Once flames develop, stairways and hallways can act as pathways that allow heat and smoke to move between floors.
Older buildings sometimes contain wood framing or limited fire separation between sections of the structure. When this occurs, flames can travel more easily from one level to another.
Smoke movement also becomes a major concern. Even when flames remain in one area, smoke can quickly fill upper floors where residents may be sleeping or unable to exit immediately. Fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and clear evacuation routes can greatly improve safety in these environments.
