NYC probes battery-linked fire that injures 43

Authorities are investigating a New York City high-rise fire that injured over three dozen people and was traced to a faulty lithium-ion battery, the latest in a fast-growing series of battery blazes that have fire officials concerned.

Daniel Flynn, Chief Fire Marshal, FDNY said "The cause of this fire is a lithium-ion battery which is meant to power micromobility device. This is close to our 200th fire this year, where the cause of the fire is a lithium-ion battery for micro mobility device. This this particular apartment, we believe the occupant was repairing bikes all in the building, and the fire was right behind the front door. We recovered at least five bikes from this apartment."

In an updated patient count, the Fire Department said Sunday that a total of 43 civilians, firefighters and police officers were injured. Two civilians were taken to a hospital in critical condition and two in serious condition. All the other injuries were described as minor.

The Fire Department has repeatedly urged users of such batteries to follow the manufacturer's charging and storage instructions, employ only the manufacturer's cord and power adapter, stop using a battery if it overheats, and follow other safety guidance.