A critically important fire broke out at Santiago’s Beer Garden, a popular establishment in East harlem, on Wednesday evening, causing⁢ substantial damage to the business and⁣ extending to a neighboring residential building. The incident‌ began around 6:00 p.m. on Frist Avenue, quickly escalating and impacting multiple floors of the adjacent building.

Rapid Escalation and Firefighting Efforts

According to the New York City ‌Fire Department (FDNY), the fire originated at Santiago’s Beer ⁣Garden and swiftly spread to the ⁤second, third, and ultimately the ​fourth floors ‍of the ⁣connected residential ‍structure. A large-scale response‌ was initiated, with 175 firefighters and ​45​ units working for several hours to bring ‌the blaze under control.

Limited Injuries and Displacement

One ​individual sustained⁣ injuries as ⁣a⁤ result of the fire but ‌declined further medical attention at the scene. ‌The ⁣Red cross was ⁢deployed to⁣ provide assistance to residents displaced by the fire,⁤ with initial reports⁢ indicating⁣ at​ least two families were affected and required temporary housing.

Investigation ⁣Underway, Possible Cause Identified

The cause ⁤of the fire is currently under investigation. Matthew ‍Fermin, owner of a neighboring Dominican restaurant, indicated a possible ⁤origin ‍point, stating that a burning garbage can⁢ may ‍have ⁢contributed to the fire’s spread ⁢inside Santiago’s Beer Garden. ​ The FDNY has not yet confirmed this account as part of their official investigation.

The business was unoccupied at the time the fire started, mitigating the risk of more serious injuries.⁢ Authorities continue to assess ⁤the full extent of‌ the damage and work to determine the definitive cause of ⁤the ​incident.