Two killed, several injured in Bronx three-alarm fire

A tragic three-alarm fire in the Bronx resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a monk and a visitor, after it engulfed a Buddhist temple and an adjacent residence. The fire, which broke out early Wednesday morning, was exacerbated by a parked vehicle blocking a fire hydrant, hindering firefighters' access to water. The blaze was determined to be accidental, caused by a space heater coming into contact with combustible materials, and the building had prior violations noted by the Department of Buildings. Firefighters deployed around 150 personnel to the scene, but unfortunately, two victims were trapped and subsequently succumbed to their injuries. In light of this incident, city officials are reiterating the importance of fire safety, particularly concerning the use of space heaters during colder months. The investigation into the fire's causes continues as support is provided to those displaced by the incident.