Fire in Jackson Heights injures at least 21, including 5 civilians: FDNY

JACKSON HEIGHTS, Queens -- A massive fire in Queens injured at least 21 people on Tuesday, officials said.

The fire broke out on the top floor of a six-story apartment building on 34th Avenue, near 90th Street, in Jackson Heights around 1 p.m., according to the FDNY.  The fire grew to eight alarms, with over 46 units and approximately 400 emergency and fire personnel responding to the scene.

Commissioner Daniel Nigro estimated it would take a lengthy period to get the fire under control.

"This is very difficult for our members, very taxing," he said, explaining a door in the building had been left open. "The occupant fled and left the door open. We’ve stressed over the years the seriousness of that. If you do unfortunately have a fire in your home, it’s important to close that door because the fire spreads out into the hallway and units are unable to make a quick advance."

At least five civilians and 16 firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries, according to the FDNY.

More than 90 families were displaced and 133 apartments are uninhabitable, officials said

Firefighters and first responders were still on the scene, as of 10 p.m.