4 killed in New York City E-Bike Repair Shop fire.

Tragic Fire at Manhattan E-Bike Repair Shop Leaves Four Dead

A devastating fire broke out at a Manhattan e-bike repair shop, resulting in the loss of four lives and leaving two individuals hospitalized, according to the New York Fire Department.

The blaze, which started at 12:15 a.m. on Tuesday, has been deemed “accidental” and was caused by a “lithium-ion fire battery,” as reported by the FDNY. This incident occurred in close proximity to Chinatown, highlighting the growing concern over fires caused by lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and scooters.

During a press conference at the shop, FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh emphasized the role of lithium-ion batteries and e-bikes in the tragedy. She pointed to a pile of burned-out e-bikes behind her, stating, “It is very clear that this was caused by lithium-ion batteries and e-bikes. This location is known to the fire department. We have written violations at this location before, and we have conducted enforcement at this location before.”

Per #FDNY Fire Marshals, this morning’s 3-alarm fire at 80 Madison Street in Manhattan, which killed four people, was accidental. Caused by a lithium-ion battery on the first floor. pic.twitter.com/QG5t3cBexe

— FDNY (@FDNY) June 20, 2023

Tragically, the fire originated on the ground floor of the HQ E-Bike (Sales & Service) shop and quickly spread to the apartments above, resulting in the loss of four lives. The Red Cross reported that at least 25 people were displaced and in need of shelter due to the fire.

Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn revealed that the department had recently conducted surveillance at the shop to ensure compliance with regulations. The business had previously been fined for violating fire code regulations.

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In response to the incident, the FDNY took to Twitter to issue a warning to New Yorkers regarding the safe handling of lithium-ion batteries. They advised, “Do not leave batteries charging unattended or overnight when you’re sleeping. Do not use power or extension cords to charge.”

The FDNY is encouraging New Yorkers w/ lithium-ion powered mobility devices to follow practices to prevent fires and keep you safe. Do not leave batteries charging unattended or overnight when you’re sleeping. Do not use power or extension cords to charge. https://t.co/FJM6TLqOnk pic.twitter.com/EQqjvxItds

— FDNY (@FDNY) June 20, 2023

Commissioner Kavanagh highlighted the danger of having a shared space for an e-bike store and apartments, emphasizing the “volume of fire created by these lithium-ion batteries.” Fire officials have stated that lithium-ion batteries have been a significant factor in most fire-related deaths this year.

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