SUNSET PARK, Brooklyn (PIX11) -- An investigation is underway after a man died in the midst of an attempted rescue from a building fire on Wednesday, according to the FDNY.
A representative for the FDNY tells PIX11 News that they're investigating after a ladder appeared to retract while a resident was trying to escape a building fire at Ninth Avenue and 39th Street in Brooklyn.
“We are aware of an incident that took place at an all-hands fire in Brooklyn earlier this week," read the statement from the FDNY.
"As is standard practice, we began a proactive investigation of the facts and circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a civilian immediately, inclusive of our Fire Marshals, Fire Operations, and our Division of Safety.”
The ladder in question has since been taken out of service, PIX11 was told.
Citizen App video from the scene on Wednesday shows ladders propped up against the facade of the building. One person appeared to fall from the ladder and hit the ground as firefighters surrounded him.
The man was rushed to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead, officials say. At least two other people, including a firefighter, was injured as well.
According to the Department of Buildings, the property owner was also charged with violating city ordinances due to inspectors finding significant damage before the fire and illegally divided rooms.
Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.
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