Brooklyn, NY (May 28, 2026) – Three firefighters were hurt Wednesday evening while battling a restaurant fire in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn. The fire broke out around 5:45 p.m. at the Nice Chinatown restaurant on Foster Avenue, according to FDNY officials.
Hazmat crews were called to the property to remove lithium-ion batteries from inside the building during firefighting operations. Video from the rear of the restaurant showed emergency units working to contain heavy smoke and flames. Officials said it took about 90 minutes to bring the fire under control.
The three firefighters were reported to have minor injuries. Additional information about the fire had not been released as of Thursday.
Investigators are continuing to examine what caused the blaze. We are thinking of those hurt as they recover from their injuries.
Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Increase Fire Risks in Buildings
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in electronic devices, scooters, e-bikes, and backup power systems. When damaged, overheated, or improperly charged, these batteries can ignite and burn at extremely high temperatures. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries may also reignite even after flames appear to be extinguished.
Restaurant and commercial building fires can become more difficult to control when batteries or electrical equipment are present inside the structure. Thick smoke, chemical exposure, and confined indoor spaces may increase risks for both occupants and firefighting crews. In many cases, hazardous materials teams are called to safely remove or isolate batteries after a fire to help prevent additional flare-ups or chemical reactions.
