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FDNY data shows lithium-ion battery fires on track to surpass last year’s totals
By
Walter Wuthmann
Published Aug 22, 2026
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By
Walter Wuthmann
Published Aug 22, 2026
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FDNY officials say a lithium-ion battery caused a two-alarm fire at a Bronx barber shop Thursday night that injured six people – the latest in what appears to be a rising trend.
FDNY data shows the department has investigated 282 lithium-ion battery fires so far this year, which resulted in 55 injuries and one death.
In comparison, the department investigated 292 lithium-ion battery fires in all of 2025. Those fires caused 51 injuries and one death.
An FDNY spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Saturday.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that can store relatively large amounts of energy in a small space. But malfunctions can lead to “thermal runaway,” where the internal components heat, catch fire and sometimes explode.
Thursday’s fire broke out around 9:40 p.m. at La Roka Barber Shop on West Burnside Avenue in University Heights. Two of the six people injured suffered serious injuries, according to the FDNY. Surveillance footage obtained by News12 shows an object exploding in the rear of the barber shop before the room is engulfed in smoke.
Fire officials recommend charging lithium battery-powered devices like e-bikes and e-scooters outside if possible.
If not, officials say it’s important to keep the device and batteries at room temperature, and use the charging cable provided by the manufacturer.
Walter Wuthmann
Walter Wuthmann is a reporter covering public safety and the legal system.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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