Staten Island Shipyard Explosion Injures Over 30 and Claims One Life

An explosion and fire at a Staten Island shipyard on May 22, 2026, left one person dead and more than 30 injured, primarily members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). The incident began in the basement of a metal structure on a shipping dock in the Mariners Harbor neighborhood around 3:30 p.m., according to FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore.

The fire broke out at the dock located on Richmond Terrace between Lockman and Andros avenues. The deceased was a civilian, and another civilian was also hurt. More than 34 FDNY members sustained injuries, including a critically injured fire marshal and a seriously injured firefighter, officials confirmed.

“While members were conducting search, rescue, and firefighting operations, an explosion occurred, injuring multiple firefighters operating inside and around the structure,” stated FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito.

All injured individuals were transported to local hospitals. The explosion is under investigation, and officials reported limited visibility and heavy smoke when rescue crews arrived at the scene. Two workers were trapped in the basement, posing a challenging situation.

Esposito highlighted the dangers of confined spaces for rescuers. He explained that firefighters were conducting operations inside the structure, atop the barge, and adjacent to it. Several responders were injured as a result.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani commended first responders for their bravery, stating, “As the fire grew, first responders did what they always do. They ran towards danger so others could escape to safety.” A local resident driving near the scene reported hearing an explosion but did not witness visible flames.

Fire authorities brought the blaze under control by 7:20 p.m. Over 200 emergency personnel were deployed to the site. The cause of the fire and explosion is still unknown.

FDNY Members Recovering

The fire marshal involved in the incident suffered head trauma, including a small fracture and brain bleed. He remained intubated at the hospital by Friday evening. Another firefighter hospitalized in serious condition was stabilized, and officials indicated no signs of muscle injury.

A doctor from Staten Island University Hospital explained that blast energy in confined spaces poses silent threats, like penetrating organs, but fortunately, these firefighters did not sustain organ damage.

Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella urged community solidarity, stating, “Let’s stick together. Let’s keep these folks in our prayers. Let’s make sure that this can’t happen again. But let us know one thing – that this fire department and New York City EMS, there is nobody better.”

Both Mayor Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul echoed calls for thoughts and prayers for the injured and praised first responders for their selfless actions.

The deceased civilian’s identity has not yet been disclosed. A second civilian incurred serious injuries, officials noted.