UPDATE: A fire erupted at the King Electronic Hub in South Richmond Hill, Queens, last night, marking the second blaze at this electronics store in less than a year. Emergency services, including over 60 firefighters and EMS personnel, responded swiftly to the scene at 119-07 Liberty Ave. One individual was injured and transported to a nearby hospital following the incident.
The latest fire broke out on October 27, 2023, around 8:30 PM, prompting a significant response from the FDNY. Firefighters battled the flames on the first floor of the mixed-use building, where previous investigations linked a similar blaze to a lithium-ion battery fire on January 8, 2024.
In a shocking turn of events, security footage obtained by authorities revealed that stored e-bikes ignited, generating sparks and smoke that filled the store. Fire marshals are currently investigating the cause of last night’s fire, which remains undetermined at this time.
This recent incident raises significant concerns about the safety of lithium-ion batteries, particularly in e-bikes, as the FDNY confirmed the cause of the earlier fire was indeed linked to these batteries.
Residents and local business owners are understandably shaken by this recurring danger. The community is now on high alert, as the previous fire also resulted in substantial property damage and raised questions about the safety protocols in place for storing such batteries.
As investigations continue, officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or safety hazards related to lithium-ion batteries. The FDNY has yet to release further details, but they are expected to provide updates as the situation develops.
Stay tuned for more information on this urgent story as it unfolds.
