Panic erupted near Wall Street after a vehicle caught fire and exploded close to New York’s iconic Charging Bull statue, sending thick black smoke billowing across Lower Manhattan.
A dramatic car fire and explosion near New York City’s iconic Charging Bull statue triggered panic in Lower Manhattan on Tuesday evening, as thick black smoke billowed across the busy Wall Street district during rush hour.
According to the New York Fire Department (FDNY), emergency crews responded to reports of a vehicle fire near Broadway and Stone Street at around 5:42 p.m. local time. Videos circulating on social media showed the vehicle engulfed in flames moments before it exploded into a massive fireball, prompting nearby pedestrians and tourists to flee the area.
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A vehicle caught fire and subsequently exploded near the iconic Charging Bull statue in New York City’s Wall Street district pic.twitter.com/HmGaZ8J7Pv
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The vehicle, which appeared to be affiliated with New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), was parked near the roadside close to the popular tourist landmark in Manhattan’s financial district. Eyewitness footage captured onlookers gathering behind barriers while waiting for firefighters to arrive as the flames rapidly intensified.
The explosion sent thick smoke rising above surrounding buildings near Wall Street, one of the busiest commercial areas in the city. Additional footage showed people screaming and running away moments after the vehicle burst into flames.
FireVision: Car explosion in NYC’s financial district!
📡 What We Know: A vehicle caught fire and then exploded in a large fireball near NYC’s Charging Bull statue in Lower Manhattan. There are no credible reports of terrorism, foul play, or anything suspicious at this time. pic.twitter.com/qSf9cLy1Sn
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Firefighters battled the blaze for more than an hour before bringing it under control shortly before 7 p.m., officials said. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported despite the intensity of the fire and the heavy pedestrian presence in the area.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation. Officials have not indicated any evidence of criminal activity or foul play at this stage.
The Charging Bull, located near Bowling Green in Lower Manhattan, is one of New York City’s most recognisable landmarks and a major tourist attraction symbolising Wall Street and the US financial markets. The dramatic visuals from Tuesday’s incident quickly spread online, drawing widespread attention across social media platforms.
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First Published:
May 20, 2026, 20:50 IST
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