Upper East Side, New York City, November 13, 2025
A tragic fire erupted in an Upper East Side apartment building, resulting in the death of a 74-year-old woman and injuring seven others. The fire, which occurred on East 81st Street, prompted a swift response from the New York City Fire Department. Emergency services worked to control the blaze, with ongoing investigations into its cause. The American Red Cross is assisting affected residents, providing essential services and support amid the chaos.
New York City
Tragic Fire Claims Life of 74-Year-Old Woman, Injures Seven Others in Upper East Side Apartment
New York City – A devastating fire erupted on the top floor of a five-story apartment building on East 81st Street between First and York Avenue in the Upper East Side on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. The blaze resulted in the death of a 74-year-old woman and left seven others injured.
Fire Details
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) responded promptly to the emergency call, arriving at the scene to find the fire on the building’s fifth floor. Approximately 60 fire and emergency medical services personnel were deployed to combat the flames. The fire was declared under control at 1:22 p.m. During a search of the premises, the 74-year-old woman was found unconscious and unresponsive. EMS rushed her to New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead. Four other civilians and three firefighters sustained minor injuries and were transported to area hospitals. The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by fire marshals.
Community Response
The American Red Cross has been assisting residents affected by the fire, providing emergency lodging, financial aid, and comfort supplies such as toiletries, food, and blankets. Residents impacted by the fire who have not yet connected with the Red Cross are encouraged to call 1-877-RED CROSS (877-733-2767) and select Option 1 for assistance.
Recent Fire Incidents in New York City
This tragic event adds to a series of recent fires in New York City. On October 27, 2025, an 85-year-old woman was killed, and two firefighters were injured in a house fire in College Point. On September 4, 2025, a fire in East Harlem’s high-rise apartment building resulted in the death of a 72-year-old individual and injured a firefighter. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges the city faces concerning fire safety and prevention.
Fire Safety Measures
In light of these recent events, residents are reminded to adhere to fire safety guidelines, including ensuring smoke detectors are functional, having an evacuation plan, and avoiding the use of extension cords with high-wattage appliances. For more information on fire safety, residents can visit the FDNY’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the fire on East 81st Street?
The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by fire marshals. No official cause has been determined yet.
How can residents affected by the fire receive assistance?
The American Red Cross is providing emergency lodging, financial aid, and comfort supplies to residents affected by the fire. Those in need of assistance should call 1-877-RED CROSS (877-733-2767) and select Option 1.
What other recent fire incidents have occurred in New York City?
Recent incidents include a house fire in College Point on October 27, 2025, resulting in the death of an 85-year-old woman and injuries to two firefighters, and a high-rise apartment fire in East Harlem on September 4, 2025, leading to the death of a 72-year-old individual and injuries to a firefighter.
What fire safety measures should residents follow?
Residents are advised to ensure smoke detectors are functional, have an evacuation plan, and avoid using extension cords with high-wattage appliances. For more information on fire safety, visit the FDNY’s official website.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East 81st Street between First and York Avenue, Upper East Side, New York City |
| Date and Time | Wednesday, November 12, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. |
| Building Details | Five-story apartment building |
| Casualties | One fatality (74-year-old woman); seven injuries (four civilians, three firefighters) |
| Fire Department Response | Approximately 60 personnel; fire under control at 1:22 p.m. |
| Assistance Provided | American Red Cross offering emergency lodging, financial aid, and comfort supplies |
| Investigation Status | Cause and origin under investigation by fire marshals |
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