Latest On 3-Alarm Fire At 3-Story Mount Vernon Residential Building

MOUNT VERNON, NY — An overnight three-alarm fire displaced 17 families in Mount Vernon on Tuesday.

Mount Vernon police asked commuters to avoid Mount Vernon Avenue entirely, as fire crews continued to operate in the area.

The Fuller Center of Greater New York was on the scene, helping those who were evacuated. One family with two school-age daughters, ages eight and nine, is in need of school supplies, including backpacks and a tablet. Others who escaped with only the clothes on their backs could use necessities, including socks. The Fuller Center's Jim Killoran said there is a special need for kids' clothing.

In a Tuesday night post, Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard said 17 families were displaced by the fire, composed of 28 adults and 20 children.

The American Red Cross Metro NY North Chapter opened a shelter and reception center at the Doles Recreation Center (250 S 6th Ave.) for any residents who needed a safe place to stay.

Residents were able to visit the center to speak with a Red Cross caseworker and access meals and water. Red Cross said representatives were at the center until 6 p.m.

The fire started in the building on Mount Vernon Ave. just after midnight Tuesday, officials told New York City ABC-affiliate WABC News. A good Samaritan ran into the burning building to warn residents inside about the fire danger, according to the station.

No injuries resulting from the fire have been reported so far.

The City of Mount Vernon Fire Department thanked neighboring fire departments, the City of Mount Vernon Office of Emergency Management, the Buildings Department and the American Red Cross who has been assisting the families that have been displaced with shelter at the Doles Center.

City officials said that the fire is still under active investigation by the Mount Vernon Police Department Detectives Unit, the ATF, the Westchester County Police Department, and the Yonkers Police Department.

They added that they appreciate the courageous efforts of Mount Vernon’s bravest in tackling this challenging situation.

Traffic diversions and safety measures were still in place on Mount Vernon Ave. Tuesday evening for the ongoing investigation.

The city says that the demolition of the property has already begun and the public will be updated on the investigation as soon as possible.