Michael Fahy, FDNY chief, killed in Bronx home explosion

A New York City firefighter was killed and more than a dozen first responders were injured Tuesday in an explosion while responding to a report of a gas leak at a Bronx residence, local reports said.

Battalion Chief Michael Fahy, 44, a 17-year FDNY veteran and father of three, was killed after he was struck by debris in the explosion, a local CBS News affiliate reported.

“It is a reminder of the dangers that our first responders face every day, the dangers that the men and women of the FDNY face and the bravery with which they do their job,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said at a news conference.

“He was on the rise. He was a star, a brave man,” FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro said. “It’s a terrible loss for the Fahy family, it’s a loss for the fire department family. We feel it deeply.”

Firefighters were responding to a report of a gas leak at 304 W. 234 St., near Tibbett Avenue, about 6:22 a.m. Tuesday when they discovered what appeared to be a hydroponic marijuana growing lab with propane tanks, sources told DNA Info.

Firefighters shut off the gas before working with NYPD officers to evacuate the building and others nearby, sources said.

Emergency responders were in the street when the building exploded about an hour later, DNA Info reported.

Mr. Fahy was standing in the street when he was struck by a piece of the roof, Mr. Nigro said. The fire chief was rushed to the hospital, but could not be saved.

Investigators are still trying to determine what sparked the explosion.

“It’s a crime scene, and it will be for a few days to come,” Mr. Nigro told reporters.

Nine firefighters, six police officers, three Con Edison workers and two civilians were also injured, DNA Info reported.

Their injuries were believed to be non-life threatening.

“I am saddened to hear about the explosion that occurred in the Bronx and the tragic loss of life of the brave FDNY battalion chief,” Rep. Charles Rangel, who represents Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, said in a statement. “We are grateful to our first responders who attended to the initial gas leak and those who are dealing with the aftermath of the explosion. I join my constituents as we keep our neighbors, those injured and their families in our prayers.”