Manhattan Vent Explosion Injures Two Women

Explosion on East 53rd Street

• 💥 An explosion occurred on Manhattan's East Side, specifically on East 53rd Street between Lex and Third Avenue.
• 🏥 Two women were injured and taken to Wild Cornell Hospital; one sustained minor injuries, while the other is in critical condition.

Cause of the Explosion

• 💨 Fire officials believe the incident involved a diesel emergency generator that may have caused a backdraft or back puff.
• 🧱 This event caused a vent assembly to explode and fly across the street, hitting the victims with debris.

Scene Description

• 🏢 The explosion originated from a Marriott hotel building, appearing to be a freight entrance, not affiliated with the adjacent parking garage.
• 🚧 A large opening is visible where the vent was blasted out onto the sidewalk.
• 🚒 The FDNY responded to the call shortly after 9:00 PM and had the situation under control within 20 minutes.
• 🔍 Investigators noted a charred vent on the back wall of the building.