Watch CBS News

FDNY investigating suspicious fire in Soundview section of the Bronx that killed 1, injured 2

1 dead, 2 injured in Bronx building fire
1 dead, 2 injured in Bronx building fire 01:31

NEW YORK -- A deadly fire in the Bronx on Sunday afternoon is now being described by firefighters as suspicious.

One person was killed and at least two others were injured in the blaze in the Soundview section of the borough.

The FDNY says more than 100 firefighters rushed to the building at Evergreen and Westchester avenues at around 2 p.m.

"It was crazy, man," tenant Ibrahima Magassouba said.

Magassouba says when heard people running through the building, he opened his door.

"I don't know how to feel. Like, a lotta smoke coming, man. I just panicked. I left everything inside. I had to come out running," Magassouba said.

"I opened the window, I smelled all this smoke. I came out. I came out the gate. I just saw all these flames," Soundview resident Peggy Epps said.

One woman told CBS2 off camera she had to break a first-floor window to escape. She suffered some cuts, but is expected to be okay.

"It was really big. Those are my neighbors. They almost died," Magassouba said.

Deputy Chief James Donlevy said the FDNY considers the fire suspicious and the fire marshal is investigating.

"Really because of the heavy fire on arrival, and we can't determine any obvious cause at this time," Donlevy said.

The Red Cross was working with Magassouba and at least 16 others to figure out where they'll stay Sunday night.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.