At least 9 injured, 100s evacuated from JFK airport after escalator fire
Several people were taken to the hospital after an escalator fire at New York’s JFK International Airport on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey told ABC News.
July 24, 2024
An escalator fire at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City has left at least nine people injured and hundreds of others evacuated from the terminal. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, causing chaos and panic among travelers and airport staff.
The fire broke out on an escalator in Terminal 4 of the airport, which is one of the busiest terminals at JFK. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it may have been sparked by a malfunction in the escalator’s machinery.
As smoke filled the terminal, passengers and airport employees were forced to evacuate the area. Many people were seen coughing and struggling to breathe as they made their way out of the terminal. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to treat the injured and ensure that everyone was safely evacuated from the building.
At least nine people were taken to the hospital with injuries related to the fire, including smoke inhalation and minor burns. Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening. The rest of the passengers and staff were evaluated by medical personnel on site and released.
The incident caused significant disruption to airport operations, with flights delayed and canceled as a result of the evacuation. Passengers were left stranded in the terminal, unsure of when they would be able to continue their travels.
Airport officials are working to determine the extent of the damage caused by the fire and to ensure that all safety protocols are being followed to prevent future incidents. The escalator where the fire occurred has been shut down for inspection and repairs.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining safety measures in public spaces, especially in busy transportation hubs like airports. It also highlights the need for emergency preparedness and quick response in the event of a crisis.
As investigations into the cause of the escalator fire continue, travelers are advised to stay informed about any updates on airport operations and to follow instructions from airport staff in case of emergencies.
