NYC Man Arrested After Dozens of Propane Tanks Found in Van

Dangerous Discovery in Hell's Kitchen

• 🚨 Dozens of propane and gas tanks, filled with a significant amount of fuel, were discovered in a van after it crashed in Manhattan.
• ⚠️ The FDNY warned that the quantity of fuel could have caused a massive explosion, potentially devastating the area.

Fire Hazard and Public Safety

• 🚚 The van, hauling a food cart, detached and hit a parked car, leading police to notice a strong gas odor.
• 💥 Authorities found 76 propane cylinders and 75 gallons of gas, a hoard that could have led to catastrophe with a simple leak or spark.
• 🚒 The FDNY highlighted that many food vendors transport tanks this way, posing a significant fire hazard.

Historical Precedent and Regulations

• 🕯️ A past incident in Brooklyn on July 21st, 1987, involving a ruptured propane tank, resulted in four deaths and 32 injuries.
• 📜 FDNY Chief Rogers emphasized that codes regarding propane are specific due to its highly flammable nature and tendency to seek ignition sources.

Investigation and Charges

• 👨‍⚖️ The driver, 31-year-old Sed Abdul Masan, was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment and multiple fire code violations.
• ❓ Authorities are investigating his exact activities but believe the food vending industry uses this method for transporting product to street carts.
• 📍 The incident occurred at 42nd Street and 10th Avenue, a densely populated area where many people narrowly avoided danger.