Soho Building Fire: Firefighters Battle Massive Blaze at 487 Broadway, Rescue Operation for Baby in Smoke-Filled Penthouse A massive fire broke out at 487 Broadway in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood today, engulfing the mixed-use building in flames and sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
The second-alarm blaze has mobilized over 100 firefighters and emergency personnel as rescue efforts continue, including a tense operation to save an infant trapped in the smoke-filled penthouse.
The fire was first reported shortly after 11:00 a.m., originating on the roof and quickly spreading to the upper floors of the six-story building. Witnesses described flames leaping from the rooftop as firefighters worked frantically to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures in the densely packed neighborhood.
Amid the chaos, first responders received reports of a baby trapped in a penthouse apartment on the top floor. Firefighters wearing oxygen masks and equipped with thermal imaging cameras navigated the thick smoke to locate the child.
Their efforts have been described as heroic, with the infant reportedly rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation.
The building, which houses retail stores on the lower floors and residential units above, has been evacuated. Nearby streets, including parts of Broadway, have been closed as emergency crews battle the fire.
Residents and workers in the area have been advised to avoid the vicinity and stay indoors due to the hazardous smoke. Fire officials have yet to determine the cause of the blaze, though preliminary investigations suggest ongoing construction work on the roof may have played a role.
This devastating fire has left the Soho community rattled. Many residents have been displaced, and property damage is extensive. Authorities are providing temporary shelter and resources for affected families as firefighters remain on the scene to monitor for flare-ups.