Explosion at Staten Island Shipyard Kills One, Injures 36

One person died and 36 others were injured after a fire and two explosions at a Staten Island shipyard on Friday afternoon. Officials said most of the injured were firefighters and other first responders. A civilian died at the scene.

m. Firefighting and EMS crews arrived within six minutes. An explosion occurred shortly after arrival, injuring several firefighters and civilians. Five firefighters and rescue paramedics were searching inside, on top of, and next to the structure when a second blast took place.

A firefighter and a fire marshal inside the structure suffered the most serious injuries from the shock wave. The fire marshal remains in critical but stable condition with a fractured skull and small brain bleed. The firefighter arrived at the hospital in serious condition but was reported doing very well by Friday evening.

Officials continue to monitor both for further complications. Officials said a comprehensive investigation into the cause will begin as soon as possible. The shipyard previously belonged to the Bethlehem Steel Company, which built ships for the U.S. Navy during World War II.

The surrounding area includes a coffee roasting company and a self-storage facility. A witness in the area told WABC-TV he heard two explosions and felt a large shock wave.