FDNY: Lithium-ion batteries to blame for garbage truck fire in Downtown Brooklyn
According to FDNY, the fire was caused by lithium-ion batteries, many of which were discarded into hazmat material bins left at the scene.
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A garbage truck fire sent thick smoke through Downtown Brooklyn Friday afternoon after flames erupted inside the vehicle on Flatbush Avenue Extension. FDNY crews dumped the burning load into the middle of the street, where firefighters spread out the debris to contain the blaze.
According to FDNY, the fire was caused by lithium-ion batteries, many of which were discarded into hazmat material bins left at the scene.
It remains unclear how the batteries ignited, but according to FDNY, illegal lithium-ion batteries, including those often used to charge e-bikes, do not need to be connected to a power source to still have the potential to catch fire.
The flames broke out next to ongoing construction at a retail space connected to the Brook, a residential high-rise property. News 12 reached out to the Brook about any property damage caused by the fire and is waiting to hear back.
The flames and cleanup efforts blocked two lanes of traffic as crews worked to remove the smoldering construction debris and what appeared to be discarded office equipment, such as chairs and cabinets, from the scene.
The FDNY says just this year, lithium-ion batteries have caused 100 fires and have been responsible for 25 injuries.
No injuries were reported.
