Garbage Truck Bursts Into Flames in Brooklyn Overnight, Fire Quickly Contained by FDNY
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — A garbage truck caught fire early Friday morning in Brooklyn, sending flames and smoke into the air before firefighters arrived to bring the blaze under control. The incident happened around 2:00 a.m. at the intersection of 13th Avenue and 42nd Street, drawing quick response from the FDNY and local sanitation crews.
According to BoroPark24 News, firefighters were able to extinguish the flames within minutes of arriving on scene. The fire appeared to have started in the truck’s waste compartment, with flames visibly shooting out of the side and spilling debris onto the street.
Firefighters Contain Blaze Within Minutes
Eyewitnesses reported seeing bright flames and hearing popping sounds as the garbage truck burned in the middle of the intersection. Emergency crews quickly surrounded the area, blocking traffic and working to prevent the blaze from spreading to nearby vehicles or buildings.
Firefighters used multiple hose lines to suppress the fire, and officials confirmed that no injuries were reported. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation, though initial reports suggest it may have been sparked by flammable materials inside the truck’s load.
Sanitation Crews Remain On Scene for Cleanup
After the fire was fully extinguished, members of the New York City Department of Sanitation stayed on scene until about 5:30 a.m., clearing debris, removing damaged waste, and ensuring the area was safe for morning commuters.
Photos and videos posted online by local outlets show firefighters working under dim streetlights as smoke continued to rise from the back of the truck. Witnesses praised the fast response that prevented a more serious incident.
Community Reaction
Residents who live near the intersection said they were startled awake by the sound of sirens but relieved to learn that no one was hurt. Some noted that it’s not uncommon for garbage trucks to carry hazardous or improperly disposed waste that can ignite unexpectedly.
“It could have been much worse,” one nearby resident said. “The firefighters were here in minutes — they did an amazing job keeping it from spreading.”
Investigation Ongoing
Officials have not released the sanitation company’s name but confirmed that the truck has been towed for inspection. The FDNY and sanitation department are reviewing the incident to determine what caused the fire.
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