BROOKLYN, NY — Smoke and flames poured from a Red Hook warehouse Tuesday morning as a massive fire tore through the waterfront building, forcing a prolonged FDNY battle.
More than 200 firefighters responded to a five-alarm blaze at 481 Van Brunt St. in Red Hook, battling the massive fire for hours, according to FDNY sources.
Fire crews arrived within minutes of receiving the call to find flames already engulfing the upper floors of the warehouse and ripping through the roof. Shortly after 2:30 a.m., the fire was elevated to five alarms, and crews reported a collapse of both the roof and fourth floor.
Two firefighters suffered minor injuries while attempting to put out the flames, according to the FDNY.
The warehouse currently serves as an artist space in Red Hook, home to the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition, which offers 25,000 square feet of exhibition space and provides opportunities for local artists to showcase their work.
The group had been preparing to open its latest public exhibit when the fire broke out, officials said.
Fire marshals are still investigating the cause and origin of the blaze, officials said.