Thick black smoke billowed from the Brooklyn Bridge as a ball of fire ripped through the structure, terrifying spectators who had gathered for New York’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display. The blaze broke out at 9.32pm, roughly 30 minutes after the Macy’s fireworks extravaganza got underway, according to the New York Police Department. Emergency crews rushed to the East River crossing as dramatic footage captured flames tearing across the bridge while fireworks exploded overhead.
Police believe the fire was “very likely” sparked by the huge fireworks display. Two fire engines tackled the inferno, bringing it under control by 10pm. Officials insisted that fires during large fireworks shows were not uncommon, explaining that crowds are kept at a safe distance precisely for that reason.
“The Brooklyn Bridge caught fire during New York’s Fourth of July fireworks display, sending thick black smoke into the sky.”
Tourists and families watched in horror as smoke poured into the sky. Nearing Khoula, a 24-year-old tourist from France, told the New York Post: “At first I thought it was supposed to happen, but then I was scared it would explode. I thought the bridge was made of wood, so I was scared.” She said four separate fires ignited on the bridge at the same time and claimed that “extra fireworks exploded due to the fire.” Mohamed Shaban, 31, from Egypt, added: “It started as a small fire and got bigger.”
The incident came amid severe weather warnings that had already disrupted Independence Day celebrations along the US East Coast. The fireworks show was brought forward as an intense heatwave gripped the country, with officials warning of dangerous “triple-digit” temperatures. The Fourth of July parade in Washington was cancelled on Friday night after organisers said extreme heat posed a serious risk to spectators.
Hours later, President Donald Trump referenced the Brooklyn Bridge during a speech marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The bridge, a world-famous landmark, had been engulfed in flames during what was meant to be a night of celebration.