STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLYMEMBER HEVESI:
“Today (April 6), I swore out a criminal complaint with the Queens District Attorney against my opponent, perennial candidate Jonathan Rinaldi, for what appears to be acts of fraud and forgery in an illegal effort to steal an election and an Assembly seat for himself.
“My opponent has a well-documented history of dishonesty in his various unsuccessful campaigns for public office. He is a lifelong Republican, who has consistently run as a Republican, and lost as a Republican.
“But this year, Mr. Rinaldi changed his party registration to Democrat to challenge me in a primary, which is inherently against his well-documented anti-Democratic views. As a result of that move, he is literally the only person in New York who had the motive, not to mention the means and opportunity, to commit this criminal act. As alleged, Mr. Rinaldi is now suspected of attempting to defraud voters of the 28th Assembly District by committing forgery and falsely filing paperwork to register me as a Working Families Party voter. This change would have made me ineligible to run on the Democratic line had the Working Families Party not discovered the fraud, allowing me to take steps to correct it.
“Mr. Rinaldi has built his political reputation on lies, deception, and unquestionably unethical behavior. Knowing he could never win based on any merit, throughout his past campaigns, he has repeatedly lied to the voters, gotten caught, and been defeated at the ballot box. But now he has apparently crossed the line from George Santos-style fabulism into criminal fraud and forgery, and it is time for him to be held accountable.
“I am, and have always been a Democrat, and would never change parties. I have already taken steps to restore my actual enrollment, and I look forward to running for re-election as a Democrat with the support of the Working Families Party, and appearing on both the Democratic and Working Families Party lines.
“Mr. Rinaldi, on the other hand, has a lifelong record of blatant dishonesty, and is now facing an investigation for being a criminal perpetrator of fraud. If convicted, as I believe he will be, he must pay the price for his actions, and I plan to ask the courts to permanently ban him from running for office and abusing our political system further.
“I want to thank the Working Families Party for their diligence in discovering this fraud, Chairman Meeks and the Queens County Democratic Party for their swift actions to help resolve it, and District Attorney Katz and the Queens DA’s office for their professionalism in this matter. I look forward to the results of the investigation.”
CB3 TO MEET APRIL 16:
Community Board 3 will hold its Monthly Board Meeting IN-PERSON on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 7:00 pm at The Renaissance Charter School Auditorium – 35-59 81st Street, Jackson Heights.
HYNDMAN AT PRAYER BRUNCH ON APRIL 19:
On Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 10:00 am, Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman (D-29) will join local clergy, elected officials, community leaders, and residents for a special Sunday Service and Prayer Brunch at Marantha Baptist Church, 112-42 Springfield Blvd. in Queens Village. Bishop-Designate A’Kim Beecham will officiate the service, followed by a fellowship brunch focused on fostering collaboration and collective prayer for the future of Southeast Queens.
MENG, LIU, KIM, ROZIC AND UNG TO HOLD PASSPORT DAY APRIL 19:
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), in conjunction with New York State Senator John Liu, Assembly Members Ron Kim and Nily Rozic, and Council Member Sandra Ung will hold a local Passport Day to help constituents apply for or renew a passport.
The event is set to take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the United States Post Office in Flushing, Queens located at 41-65 Main Street. It follows several other passport events that Meng has arranged at post offices throughout the borough over the past three years, and this upcoming one will be the first in 2026.
“With the summer travel season around the corner and local families preparing to take trips abroad or plan business travel, now is the time for Queens residents to address their passport needs,” said the five elected officials. “We are thrilled to hold this Passport Day in our borough so that constituents have an easy and convenient way to apply for or renew their passports, and we look forward to seeing them at the event on April 19.”
To receive a passport, an individual must be a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national, and they need to complete the application form which Postal Service clerks at this upcoming event can assist with on-site. The required supporting documents must also be submitted.
The following is what constituents should bring:
1.If applying for a first-time passport, bring an original copy and photocopy of proof of identity AND U.S. citizenship documents.
2.For a renewal, bring the most recent passport and name change documents if there are any.
3.Children under age 16 must apply in person with two parents or guardians using form DS-11. Applicant must provide U.S. citizenship evidence. Parents must show relationship and present ID. If one or both parents or guardians is absent, more documents are needed.
4.Debit/credit card, or check/money order made payable to “Postmaster” for acceptance fees.
5.Check/money order made payable to “U.S. Department of State” for processing fees.
6.A color passport photo taken in the last six months, or a photo can be taken on-site with an additional fee.
More information on documents required and fees can be found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
Applications for both first-time passports and renewals will be accepted at the upcoming event on a first-come, first-served basis.
Two years ago, Meng helped to reduce extremely long processing times for passport applications and renewals that had been caused by skyrocketing demands for passports. In 2023, standard processing times for passports ranged from 10-13 weeks and expedited requests took approximately 7-9 weeks. Meng pushed the State Department to decrease this huge backlog, including pushing then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken to address the problem during a congressional hearing. The lengthy wait times were shortened, and now standard processing times are down to 4-6 weeks and expedited processing is just 2-3 weeks.
MAMDANI HELMET AND BIKE LIGHT GIVEAWAYS:
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Mike Flynn announced a series of events offering free bike helmets and lights to New Yorkers, supporting a record number of cyclists on city streets as the weather warms. Helmets will be available for people of all ages, and trained NYC DOT safety educators will ensure each helmet is properly fitted.
“A safe bike ride is a good bike ride,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Safe cycling starts with the right gear, like a well-fit helmet and bike light, and I’m excited to partner with elected officials across New York City to make sure cyclists of all ages have the tools and knowledge they need to move safely through our streets.”
Each year, NYC DOT partners with community organizations and elected officials to host free helmet-fitting events across the city. Since the program began in 2007, the City has provided more than 350,000 free bicycle helmets to New Yorkers. NYC DOT also hosts bike light giveaways to distribute lights and other safety resources.
Free Helmet Giveaways:
May 3, 2026, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with Council Member Linda Lee at Holy Cow Playground (197-49 Peck Avenue)
May 9, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Council Member Vickie Paladino at Crocheron Park (214-41 34th Avenue)
June 6, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Council Member Sandra Ung at Kissena Park Playground (164th Street & Lithonia)
June 13, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Council Member Julie Won at Hunters Point South Park
June 27, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Council Member Phil Wong at Juniper Valley Park (80th Street & Juniper Boulevard)
Bike Light Giveaways:
May 12, 2026, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Skillman Avenue & 43rd Street bike lane
May 15, 2026, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Vernon Blvd bike lane (31st Drive & 31st Avenue)
QUEENS CHAMBER BUSINESS EXPO 2026:
The Queens Chamber of Commerce has announced that their Business Expo 2026 will be held on May 19 from 12:00 to 4:00 pm at Citi Field. Join them for the 2026 Business Expo, the premier event of the year for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovators. With over 140 exhibitors showcasing the latest in products, services, and technologies, this is your chance to connect with top-tier professionals, explore new business opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-paced market. With more than 2,000 attendees expected, the Expo offers unparalleled networking opportunities, fostering relationships that can drive growth, partnerships, and success for your business. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to engage with a diverse and dynamic community—all under one roof! Mark your calendar and get ready to take your business to the next level at the Queens Chamber’s 2026 Business Expo. For more information and to register, visit queenschamber.org and click on the Events page.
HOCHUL LAUNCHES SURVEY TO REIMAGINE JAMAICA STATION:
Governor Hochul Committed $50 Million in Executive Budget To Fund Planning for the Redesign of Jamaica Station; Project Will Better Integrate Long Island Rail Road, Subway and AirTrain Service for 200,000 Daily Riders, the Fourth Busiest Train Hub in North America
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of customer engagement for the project to reimagine Jamaica Station in Queens. This customer survey will be used to guide planning for the much-needed redesign of this critical transportation hub that serves 200,000 daily riders on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), AirTrain JFK and New York City subways and buses. Recognizing the need for a redesign of Jamaica Station, the Governor’s Executive Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 includes $50 million to fund planning for the project, which will be conducted jointly by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
“Jamaica Station is a critical hub for hundreds of thousands of riders each day, from Long Island Rail Road commuters, to residents of Southeast Queens, to air travelers from around the globe — these riders deserve a world-class transit experience,” Governor Hochul said. “We know that Jamaica Station can be so much more than it is today, and by advancing this customer survey, we’ll have the insights of the riders who use it to help guide a long overdue redesign that transforms the customer experience and delivers Southeast Queens an integrated, best-in-class station for all who use it.”
The customer survey will begin today, April 10, 2026 and run through May 8, 2026. A QR code directing customers to the online survey will be posted throughout the station and information tables will be staffed from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the following locations. Dates are subject to change due to operational requirements
April 20 and April 22, 2026: Eastern Mezzanine (walkway where LIRR customers transfer between tracks).
April 24, 2026: AirTrain (Post-Fare Gate) at Jamaica Station.
April 28, 2026: MTA Customer Service Center within Sutphin Archer Subway Station.
May 1, 2026: Sutphin Archer Street level (at the station entrance – in front of Tim Horton’s).
The Jamaica Station survey is aimed at travelers, visitors, JFK Airport employees, and commuters using the station for non-airport related travel. The survey will focus on ticketing, wayfinding, transfer experience between agencies, and concessions. It will help to identify key deficiencies in the customer experience at Jamaica Station as well as how to best direct the AirTrain Redevelopment Program.
COUNCIL MEMBERS ON BEACH 116TH STREET STATION:
NYC Council Members Selvena Brooks-Powers and Joann Ariola issued a joint statement on Beach 116th Street Station Platform Update:
“Following our joint letter to the MTA raising concerns about conditions at the Rockaway Park–Beach 116th Street station, we appreciate the agency’s recent action to complete temporary repairs and restore full platform access for riders. This is an important and necessary step forward. For too long, residents of the Rockaway Peninsula–particularly seniors, people with disabilities, and working families–have had to navigate limited access and uncertainty at a station they rely on every day. At the same time, this must be understood as an interim solution. Our community deserves a fully repaired, accessible, and reliable station, not a prolonged temporary fix. We will continue to push for a clear timeline and funding commitment for permanent repairs as part of the MTA’s capital plan. Reliable transit is essential to daily life in the Rockaways, and we remain committed to ensuring our system meets the needs of the residents we serve.”
UNG ON ARREST IN CONNECTION WITH DEADLY FIRE:
Deputy Leader Sandra Ung issued the following statement in response to the arrest of a suspect in connection with the March 16th fire in her district that killed four people and injured several others:
“If the allegations against the accused arsonist responsible for the fire on Avery Avenue are true, this was a deliberate and horrific act of violence that resulted in the death of four individuals, including a three-year-old girl. If found guilty, he should be held fully accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. There is no place in our city for such senseless cruelty.
“My thoughts remain with the victims, their loved ones, and all those affected by this tragedy. No measure of justice will ever be enough to make these families whole again, but I hope that this arrest is the beginning of some measure of accountability and, in time, a sense of closure.
“I also want to thank Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz for taking a personal interest in this case, and commend her office for their swift and thorough work in securing an indictment and bringing charges. Their commitment sends a clear message that acts of this magnitude will be met with urgency and seriousness. I also want to thank the men and women of both the New York City Police Department and the New York City Fire Department for both their response to this fire and their swift apprehension of this individual.”
MAMDANI ANNOUNCES 2-K WILL BE FULL-DAY AND FULL-YEAR:
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced that, beginning this fall, most 2-K seats will operate on a full-day and full-year schedule — a major step toward delivering truly universal child care and confronting New York City’s affordability crisis. Representing a majority of the first 2,000 2-K seats available this fall — and setting the standard for future expansion — the program will run from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., 260 days a year, replacing the traditional 180-day school calendar. The shift reflects the Mamdani administration’s commitment to aligning early childhood education with the realities facing working families and reducing the need for costly, patchwork child care. “For many families working nine to five, an eight to three program isn’t going to cut it. For too long, parents have been forced to choose between their livelihood and their children, or to drain their savings just to make it through the workday. That ends now,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Universal child care must meet the real lives of working people. That begins with full-year, full-day 2-K.”
“New York City Public Schools have always been the backbone of our communities, and 2-K is our opportunity to support families even earlier in their child’s life,” said Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels. “This is a historic moment, and I am proud to partner with Mayor Mamdani to build an early child care and education system that is truly universal, equitable, and tailored around the real needs of the families we serve.”
The 2-K rollout is part of the Mayor’s broader push to guarantee child care for all New Yorkers with children ages six weeks to five years. As part of that effort, families are encouraged to help shape the program’s future by completing the NYC Parent Survey, supported by Robin Hood, at nyc.gov/ParentSurvey.
As the city prepares to welcome its first 2-K families, the Mamdani administration has begun notifying contracted providers that expressed interest in offering seats this fall. Additional providers that responded to the City’s groundbreaking RFI will be notified in the coming weeks.
To ensure flexibility and sustainability, providers may still offer a 2-K program aligned to the school calendar, and full-day and full-year care is not a requirement for a family to accept a seat.
As the Mayor reaches his 100th day in office, the Administration has already taken significant steps towards universal child care. On Day 8, Mayor Mamdani joined Governor Hochul to announce a historic $1.2 billion investment in Pre-K and 3-K. The Mayor subsequently announced an additional 1,000 new 3-K seats to meet demand and expedited the opening of an Upper East Side early childhood education center after the previous administration stalled its launch.
In March, Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul announced the first four communities to receive free 2-K seats. Communities in five school districts will get access to over 2,000 free seats this fall. The Mayor also joined Bronx-born rapper Cardi B to announce a citywide 2-K application jingle. Submissions to the 2-K jingle contest can be made at nyc.gov/jingle. Submissions must be received by Friday, April 17, 2026. Full entry rules and guidelines are available at nyc.gov/jingle.
In addition, the Mayor recently announced a first-of-its-kind child care provider map and online resource hub, designed to make it easier for families to find care and understand the options available to them, and the City’s first free child care program pilot for municipal workers.
ADDABBO PET FOOD DRIVE:
Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. has partnered with The Lovely Beans and Puppy Kitty NYC, two non-profit animal rescue groups, to host a pet food drive, collecting new cans and bags of cat food and dog food, which can be dropped off at each of his district office locations – 84-16 Jamaica Avenue in Woodhaven or 66-85 73rd Place in Middle Village – during regular business hours from April 13th to May 29th.
“Our goal is to help as many animals in need as possible and remind us that pet care is a long journey, not a momentary act,” Addabbo said. “If we commit to it, we must honor the trust animals place in us and spare them the pain of abandonment that no creature deserves.”
Upon completion of the drive, the collected items will be given to The Lovely Beans in Richmond Hill and Puppy Kitty NYC in Middle Village, to be distributed appropriately throughout the city to help animals in need, and facilitate each organization’s mission to save homeless, sick, and dying animals.
“Pets are family, and during difficult times, support like this means everything,” said Felicia Bownoth, President of The Lovely Beans. “The Lovely Beans is grateful to partner with Senator Addabbo to bring a little relief and a lot of compassion to families and their pets.”
“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Senator on this crucial food drive,” said Meagan Licari Executive Director of Puppy Kitty NYCity. “Our mission is to never say no to an animal in need. It aligns perfectly with the Senator’s commitment to our community, and together, we can make a significant impact in ensuring that no animals in our district are going hungry.”
If you are struggling to feed or care for your pet, please send an email to thelovelybeans1@gmail.com or info@puppykittynyc.org
ADDABBO HOSTS BIRD WATCHING TOUR:
In response to popular demand and the success of last year’s debut, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. is partnering with the Queens County Bird Club and the Parks Department to host a bird watching tour in Forest Park for his constituents on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 am to 11:30 am.
Anyone interested in participating must register in advance by calling Senator Addabbo’s Office at 718-738-1111. The meetup point will be across the street from Forest Park at the corner of Mayfair Road and Parklane South. Participants should arrive on time, wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes and bring their own binoculars if they have them.
Last year attendees saw many beautiful birds, along with chipmunks and squirrels. They also absorbed the rich green environment of the park and could hear various birds chirping and other natural sounds. Some of the birds that were viewed on last year’s walk were the Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ovenbird, Chimney Swift, American Robin, White-breasted nuthatch, Red-bellied woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Blue Jay, a warbler, and sparrows.
Punctuality is a must because once the tour starts in the park, there are no defining markers to let late arrivals know where they should go. The ground is rocky, uneven terrain making good quality, strong and comfortable shoes very important. There will be a limited number of binoculars available for loan to the public but not enough for everyone. Keep in mind that many of the birds that are common to the area are on the smaller side and require binoculars for clear viewing.
“My staff and I tackle many serious community issues every day, so sometimes it’s nice to take a break with the constituents and do a fun, stress relieving activity, that brings people a lot of enjoyment,” Addabbo said. “Forest Park is an amazing part of district, and these bird-watching tours are a chance for residents to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and advocate for preserved green spaces for future generations.”
Senator Addabbo would like to thank the Queens County Bird Club and the Parks Department for their support.
WON RAISES $640,000 FOR NY-7 CONGRESSIONAL RACE:
Council Member Julie Won today announced her campaign for Congress raised $640,000 in its first seven weeks, putting her on track to raise over $2 million before the June 23rd Democratic Primary.
“I’m running to build a country that takes care of people––from the moment they’re born to the day they retire,” said Won. “The people powering this campaign are the ones who need it the most, and I do not take that responsibility lightly. I’m beyond grateful for their support, and will bring their stories to Washington. The taxi driver who works twelve-hour days and still can’t afford childcare. The nurse who spends her life caring for other people’s families but struggles to afford care for her own. The grandmother who raised her kids, raised her grandkids, and now worries no one will be there for her. From the college student just starting out to the retiree who’s given everything––we all want the same thing, a Lifetime of Care.”
MENG COLLECTS NEARLY 10X THE REQUIRED NUMBER OF SIGNATURES:
This week, after an incredible turnout from volunteers and partner organizations, Congresswoman Grace Meng collected 12,272 signatures, once again securing her place on the primary ballot as she seeks re-election to serve New York’s Sixth Congressional District in the House of Representatives.
Having amassed nearly 10x the number of signatures required, this is yet another indicator of Rep. Meng’s momentum — having already earned endorsements from key elected officials like Rep. Nydia Velázquez, NYS Sen. John Liu, and NYC Councilmember Shekar Krishnan, and organizations like the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC, 1199SEIU, 32BJ, and HTC — ahead of the June primary. Taken together, they underscore Rep. Meng’s place as a leader uniquely suited to fight for Queens.
“Getting on the ballot is more than just paperwork, it’s about showing up,” said Rep. Meng. “Every term I’ve served, I’ve fought to deliver for the people of Queens, and every election, this community shows up to send me back to do more. Hundreds of volunteers hit the streets across our district because they believe in what we’ve built together and what we’re fighting for. Earning a place on this ballot is a reminder that this work isn’t mine alone. It belongs to every supporter and every family counting on me in Washington, and I’m grateful for their support.”
THREE MORE UNIONS ENDORSE MENG:
Representative Grace Meng’s labor coalition continues to grow, adding key endorsements from the New York State Association of Letter Carriers (NYSALC), the state chapter of the National Association of Letter Carriers, their Local 294 chapter, and the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation (SMART) Workers Local 28.
These endorsements reflect Rep. Meng’s fierce commitment to workers’ rights and union advocacy from the floor of Congress. She has supported and passed legislation that created new training programs for skilled labor, expanded workers’ rights across industries, and strengthened workplace safety standards across the country.
“Queens’ unions are an essential part of that strong labor community,” said Meng. “Because of their tireless work, our friends, families, and neighbors have gotten to experience safer and happier workplaces. SMART Local 28, NYSALC, and Local 294 have given a voice to their members and facilitated real, tangible change in our city. I am so honored to have their support, and will continue to fight for labor rights, pathways, and protections in Congress.”
CWA DISTRICT 1 ENDORSES MENG:
The Communications Workers of America District 1 announced their endorsement of Representative Grace Meng’s re-election campaign in New York’s 6th Congressional District.
Their endorsement adds to Rep. Meng’s impressive coalition of labor support — including 1199SEIU, DC37, and 32BJ — and growing momentum ahead of the 2026 election.
“CWA members know the difference between a politician who talks about labor and one who shows up. Grace Meng shows up,” said Dennis Trainor, Vice President of CWA District 1. “From expanding access to good-paying jobs to ensuring that the people who keep the country and the economy running are treated with dignity, Grace has been a tireless advocate in Queens and across this country, and CWA District 1 is proud to stand with her.”
*** CRIME BLOTTER **
MASPETH MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER AND ARSON:
Defendant Attempted to Enter Building Before Fire; Went to Nearby Gas Station, Asked for Matches and Set Combustible Trash on Fire at Bottom of Stairway; Faces up to 25 Years to Life, if Convicted.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Roman Amatitla was charged with eight counts of murder in the second degree, arson in the first degree and related charges for setting a fire that killed four occupants of a Flushing building and injured seven others, including two firefighters. The defendant allegedly used matches from a nearby gas station to start the blaze and then watched as the building burned.
DA Katz said: “This was an act of mass murder. As alleged, Roman Amatitla deliberately set a fire in an occupied building and killed four people, including a 3-year-old girl. Shockingly, the defendant had no known connection to the building or any of its occupants and selected the building at random. I thank the brave FDNY members who risked their lives to save others in the building and the NYPD and US Marshals Service for apprehending this defendant.”
Amatitla, 38, of Maspeth, was charged in a criminal complaint with eight counts of murder in the second degree, arson in the first degree, two counts of assault in the first degree, arson in the second degree, two counts of assault in the second degree and petit larceny. He was arraigned before Criminal Court Judge Thomas Wright-Fernandez who remanded him and ordered him to return to court April 13. He faces up to 25 years to life, if convicted.
DA Katz said that, according to the charges and investigation, on March 16, at approximately 11:43 a.m., Roman Amatitla entered the ground floor of a three-story building at 132-05 Avery Avenue in Flushing and left the premises approximately a minute later. The defendant remained in the vicinity of the property for another 15 minutes and then urinated in front of the location. Amatitla entered and exited the premises two more times in the following seven minutes. The defendant then crossed the street and went into a nearby gas station, where he purchased a beer, stole another beer and asked the clerk for a lighter. When the clerk informed Amatitla that lighters were not free, the defendant settled for a pack of matches. Amatitla then entered the building for a fourth time, lit a piece of paper on fire and placed the flaming paper on top of garbage located near a stairwell. Shortly afterward, smoke began to fill the street. The defendant stayed in the immediate area and watched the fire consume the building.
Responding firefighters discovered a 3-year-old girl, Sihan Yang, on a third-floor bed and she was pronounced deceased on the scene. A 49-year-old male, Chengri Cui, and a 61-year-old female, Shin Chie Ming, were also both discovered in the building and pronounced deceased on the scene. All three succumbed to smoke inhalation. Hong Zhao, a 64-year-old male, leaped from a building window and sustained multiple broken bones and brain trauma. He was pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital at 2:30 p.m.
Two members of the FDNY, a lieutenant and firefighter, entered the burning building to conduct rescues. Both fell to the basement when the staircase connecting the first floor to the second and third floors collapsed. They were transported to Jacobi Hospital for smoke inhalation and thermal burns.
Four building occupants were injured when they jumped from the building to escape the blaze and one remains hospitalized. A fifth occupant was rescued from a second-floor window by the FDNY and was treated for smoke inhalation.
—With contributions by Augusta Luger
This column was originated by John A. Toscano.