Fire Breaks Out on Brooklyn Bridge During US 250th Independence Day Fireworks

A fire broke out on the Brooklyn Bridge late Saturday night during the United States' 250th Independence Day fireworks display. Flames were reported at four separate points on the bridge near the fireworks area. Firefighters responded promptly and extinguished the blaze about 30 minutes after the initial report at 9:32 p.m. local time. Authorities indicated that the fireworks likely caused the fire. No injuries were reported. The bridge remained closed to traffic for approximately another 30 minutes while emergency vehicles were on site.

Eyewitnesses described the fire as small but unusual, with flames appearing suddenly. The Brooklyn Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the East River and connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, was inaugurated on May 24, 1883, and is considered an engineering marvel. The incident occurred during a major celebration marking a significant US national milestone.