Mount Vernon, NY, November 24, 2025
A five-alarm fire broke out early Sunday at a seven-story apartment building in Mount Vernon, displacing over 100 residents days before Thanksgiving. The fire, which began in a seventh-floor kitchen, challenged firefighters due to the building’s pre-war construction. While two residents were hospitalized for evaluation and five firefighters sustained minor injuries, no significant injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the fire’s cause as local organizations provide shelter and support for those affected.
Massive Fire Displaces Residents in Mount Vernon, NY
Mount Vernon, NY – A devastating five-alarm fire erupted early Sunday morning at a seven-story apartment building on Cottage Avenue, displacing over 100 residents just days before Thanksgiving. The blaze, which began around 3 a.m., originated in a seventh-floor kitchen and rapidly spread through the building’s cockloft—a space between the ceiling and roof—making firefighting efforts particularly challenging. Firefighters faced difficulties due to the building’s pre-war construction, lacking modern fire suppression systems. Despite these challenges, authorities reported no significant injuries; however, two residents were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation, and five firefighters sustained minor injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Displacement and Shelter Arrangements
The fire’s intensity forced hundreds of residents to evacuate, with approximately 150 individuals in immediate need of shelter. Local authorities have coordinated with the Red Cross to provide temporary housing and essential services. Holmes Elementary School has been designated as a temporary shelter for the displaced residents, offering accommodations through Thanksgiving. The community has rallied to support those affected, with local businesses and churches contributing food, clothing, and other necessities.
Community Response and Support
Mount Vernon officials have been actively involved in coordinating relief efforts. The Doles Center has been set up as a staging area for donations, accepting items such as winter clothing, toiletries, and new undergarments. The community’s swift response underscores the resilience and solidarity of Mount Vernon residents in the face of adversity.
Background on Mount Vernon Fire Department
The Mount Vernon Fire Department has a history of responding to various incidents, including building fires. In 2024, the department reported 75 building fires, accounting for 1.7% of their total incidents. This experience has equipped them with the expertise to handle complex situations like the recent fire on Cottage Avenue.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. The Mount Vernon Fire Department, along with other agencies, is working diligently to determine the origin and circumstances surrounding the incident. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Weather Conditions
On the day of the fire, Mount Vernon experienced temperatures ranging from a low of 0.6°C (33°F) to a high of 8.9°C (48°F), with cloudy conditions. These weather factors may have influenced the fire’s behavior and the challenges faced by emergency responders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the fire in Mount Vernon?
The exact cause of the fire is under investigation. It began in a seventh-floor kitchen and quickly spread through the building’s cockloft.
How many residents were displaced by the fire?
Over 100 residents were displaced due to the fire. Approximately 150 individuals are in immediate need of shelter.
Where are displaced residents being sheltered?
Displaced residents are being sheltered at Holmes Elementary School, which has been designated as a temporary shelter through Thanksgiving.
Were there any injuries reported?
There were no significant injuries reported. Two residents were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation, and five firefighters sustained minor injuries.
How can the community assist those affected by the fire?
The community can assist by donating items such as winter clothing, toiletries, and new undergarments at the Doles Center. Local businesses and churches are also contributing food and other necessities.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 30 Cottage Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY |
| Time of Occurrence | Approximately 3 a.m., Sunday, November 23, 2025 |
| Building Details | Seven-story apartment building, pre-war construction |
| Fire Alarm Level | Five-alarm fire |
| Displaced Residents | Over 100 residents displaced; approximately 150 in immediate need of shelter |
| Injuries | Two residents evaluated at hospital; five firefighters with minor injuries |
| Temporary Shelter | Holmes Elementary School designated as shelter through Thanksgiving |
| Community Support | Local businesses and churches providing food, clothing, and necessities |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire |
| Weather Conditions | Temperature range: 0.6°C (33°F) to 8.9°C (48°F); cloudy conditions |
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