NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Eleven people were injured, including eight NYPD officers, in an explosion and fire at a Queens home early Thursday that authorities believe is linked to a domestic dispute.
The suspect — Anroop Parasram, 50 — remained unaccounted for Thursday after authorities said he broke into the home of his estranged wife in South Ozone Park armed with a knife and two canisters of what is believed to be gasoline.
Parasram used to live at the residence 107-55 130th St., according to police, who said he had three expired orders of protection against him.
The dwelling exploded and caught fire around 3 a.m., sending smoke and flames rising into the night sky.
Three family members — the suspect’s estranged wife, child and two grandkids — managed to escape, suffering minor injuries.
The house ultimately collapsed in the fire. The FDNY said nearly 300 fire and EMS personnel responded.Glenn Schuck
Eight officers were injured in “a massive fiery explosion” as they attempted to enter the home, according to NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, who said the blast was “so powerful it knocked them off their feet.”
“Multiple officers were thrown from their feet, with some being launched into gates at the front of the residence,” he said.
“They stood up, they got up, they ran into the burning home,” McIntosh said. “Because that’s what the job required, and that’s what they do every day.”
“Multiple officers were thrown from their feet, with some being launched into gates at the front of the residence,” NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh said.Citizen App
The house ultimately collapsed in the fire. The FDNY said nearly 300 fire and EMS personnel responded.
An investigation into the exact cause of the explosion is underway.
McIntosh said video shows the suspect “carrying two garbage bags filled with canisters containing an unknown substance,” believed to be the gas that fueled the blaze.