Diwali Turns Tragic In New York: Fireworks Blaze Guts Homes, 2 Injured

Last Updated:October 24, 2025, 23:19 IST

Surveillance footage showed fireworks soaring through the air, with one burst reportedly striking a house

According to the New York City Fire Department, the fire started at around 2.20 am on Lincoln Street. (Image via X/@ushrit2020)

A fire caused by Diwali fireworks severely damaged two homes in Queens, New York, leaving two people with minor injuries, officials said. The blaze began in the early hours of Wednesday and quickly spread to a neighbouring residence, engulfing both houses.

According to the New York City Fire Department, the fire started at around 2.20 am on Lincoln Street. Surveillance footage showed fireworks soaring through the air, with one burst reportedly striking a house before flames rapidly engulfed the buildings at the corner of Foch Boulevard and Lincoln Street.

All occupants escaped without major injury, though two individuals were taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

The official Twitter handle of the Fire Department shared footage of the fire.

Neighbours said the fireworks were part of Diwali celebrations. Many expressed frustration over the timing and noise. “It was all night, since 9 pm. It was really loud, disturbing us from sleeping," Rehana Insanali told CBS News.

Another resident, Charlie Cuebas, added: “You can celebrate at a certain time, but why celebrate until 1, 2, 3 in the morning when people have got to get up early to go to work?"

Families affected by the fire described the losses as devastating. “I never thought in a million years I would go through this," said Juanita Colon. “We have got nothing now because everything is ruined. My son has no clothes. We have to be in a hotel room living out of a hotel," she added.

Wednesday afternoon, melted vehicles and burnt-out homes were all that remained. Boxes of fireworks were still scattered on the street, evidence of the celebrations gone wrong.

No arrests have been made, and police said an investigation is ongoing. Authorities also reported similar incidents in Edison, New Jersey, where officials received around 40 calls about fires during Diwali celebrations.

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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...

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News world Diwali Turns Tragic In New York: Fireworks Blaze Guts Homes, 2 Injured

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