Over 100 Displaced After 5-Alarm Fire Tears Through Mount Vernon Apartment Building

By Ben Crnic From Daily Voice

More than 100 residents were displaced after a massive five-alarm fire tore through an apartment building in Westchester County, prompting an hours-long emergency response and a large-scale humanitarian effort.

The fire broke out at 30 Cottage Ave. in Mount Vernon early Sunday morning, Nov. 23, and quickly escalated to five alarms as flames ripped through the building. Mount Vernon firefighters, joined by numerous mutual-aid departments, battled the blaze for more than eight hours. The fire was declared under control at 1:56 p.m., according to city officials.

Two civilians and five firefighters suffered minor injuries, officials added.

According to the American Red Cross New York North Chapter, a major relief operation was launched soon after the blaze. Disaster teams opened a reception center at the Doles Recreation Center in partnership with the city to provide warmth, food, and initial support.

At the reception center, 121 residents — 89 adults and 32 children — registered for Red Cross assistance, the organization said.

By Sunday evening, the Red Cross also opened a temporary emergency shelter at Holmes Elementary School to provide overnight lodging for displaced residents and their pets. 62 residents from 21 households slept at the shelter, according to the organization.

On Monday, Nov. 24, the Westchester County Department of Social Services joined Red Cross teams at Holmes Elementary School to help residents plan next steps. Displaced residents were also offered breakfast, lunch, dinner, and additional resources at the shelter.

State Leaders Respond

State Sen. Jamaal T. Bailey called the fire “devastating,” noting that hundreds of residents were uprooted just before the holidays.

"My thoughts remain with every resident affected by this fire," Bailey said, praising Mount Vernon firefighters, Mayor Patterson-Howard, and the Red Cross for their leadership and quick response. The senator said he is working with state and local officials to ensure families receive needed resources.