Easter Services Disrupted by 5-Alarm Fire at Brooklyn Church

A fire outbreak on Sunday disrupted Easter services at Our Lady of Rosary Pompeii Church in Bushwick, Brooklyn, prompting a significant response from the FDNY.

The 5-alarm fire erupted before 2 p.m., engulfing Our Lady of Rosary Pompeii Church in Bushwick. FDNY crews swiftly responded, with the firefighting efforts continuing into the afternoon. Seigel Street was temporarily shut down to facilitate the operation.

Injuries and Casualties:

At least six individuals sustained injuries during the fire incident, as reported by the FDNY. Among the injured were three parishioners and three firefighters, all of whom suffered minor injuries. Fortunately, there were no reports of fatalities.

Witnesses recounted that Easter celebrants were present inside the church when the fire broke out. Approximately 100 people attended the afternoon mass, and the incident disrupted the festive atmosphere of the holiday gathering.

Salvage Efforts and Structural Damage:

Despite the intensity of the fire, FDNY personnel managed to save the church from destruction. 

However, a portion of the second floor collapsed during the blaze, resulting in a firefighter’s fall. Fortunately, the firefighter sustained only minor injuries.

While the church structure was spared significant damage, the adjacent rectory suffered extensive harm. FDNY officials reported extensive damage to the residence, underscoring the fire’s impact on the church’s premises.