FDNY responded to a fatal fire in the Bronx on Thursday, March 26.
Photo by Lloyd Mitchell
The FDNY took on a five-alarm fire that ultimately claimed a person’s life in the Bronx on Thursday morning.
At 5:30 a.m. on March 26, FDNY personnel responded to a call regarding a fire on the top floor and in the cockloft, which is the space between the ceiling and roof, at 505 East 184th St. Upon their arrival, firefighters were met with heavy fire on the top floor, bringing over 280 firefighters and EMS personnel to the scene.
“Members stretched multiple handlines to the top floor and into the cockloft space, opening up to reach fire in an area that is inherently difficult to access,” said Chief of Fire Operations Kevin Woods.
The fire escalated throughout the morning, ultimately reaching fifth alarm status by 7:30 a.m. One person was found dead in the apartment where the fire originated.
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell 
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell 
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell
There was very heavy damage to the building as a result of the fire, which caused the roof to collapse on the top floor as well as the exterior cornice.
The FDNY utilized drone technology to identify the building’s hot spots during fire operations.
“We leverage our technology to enhance safety in the FDNY and [the drones] have thermal imaging cameras where we can identify all of the hot spots,” said Woods.
The fire was placed under control at 8:12 a.m. Six firefighters and two civilians sustained minor injuries as a result and were taken to area hospitals.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the FDNY Fire Marshals. The FDNY will be maintaining a presence at the building throughout the day.
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell 
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell 
Firefighters battled a five alarm fire at 505 East 184 Street.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell