Tragedy struck a senior housing facility on a Saturday morning as a fire broke out, resulting in the loss of a 78-year-old resident’s life. The incident occurred at the facility, as reported on Google Maps.
A call at 111 West 71st Street, between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues, was responded to by a total of 20 units and 78 fire and EMS personnel. The incident occurred just before 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, as confirmed by an FDNY spokesperson.
According to the NYPD, William Green, 78, was discovered dead in his 10th-floor apartment during the fire. The fire, initially reported as a fire alarm concern, was brought under control at 8:05 a.m.
The cause of the incident is currently being investigated by fire marshals. Fortunately, there were no other reported injuries.
Hargrave House, located at 111 West 71st Street, is a senior living facility in the bustling city of New York. This 12-story building offers a total of 112 units exclusively designed for individuals aged 62 and older.
According to a maintenance worker named Juan, who works at Hargrave House, Green was described as a “nice guy” and someone who kept to himself. Juan, who is 31 years old, mentioned that Green had a quiet personality.
A resident residing on the 12th floor had a suspicion that Green was a hoarder. According to them, “I could see the firemen sweeping up…literally shoveling up trash… It was an absolute mess.”
Janice, a resident of the area, remarked that it was fortunate that not more people were injured in the incident.
She pointed out that being seniors, many individuals in the community have hearing impairments and may not have even realized what had occurred. Janice personally heard the sirens, but acknowledged that not everyone did.
