Photos Courtesy of FDNY
The fire last Friday quickly tore through more than a dozen Vleigh Place businesses.
By Michael V. Cusenza
Three firefighters were hurt last Friday evening while battling a fast-moving blaze that quickly tore through a block of small businesses in Kew Gardens Hills, according to the City Fire Department and published reports.
FDNY officials said 40 units and 175 firefighters responded to the five-alarm fire that broke out around 6:25 p.m. on Vleigh Place near 77th Road. Three Bravest were treated for smoke inhalation; 14 establishments were completely destroyed by the inferno that ultimately was brought under control shortly after midnight.
Fire officials said flames and smoke were able to spread so quickly because of the cockloft – a small loft or attic above the highest finished ceiling of a building – shared by the stores.
