New Yorkers Come To The Rescue After East Village Fire, Show Big Apple At Its Best

New Yorkers Come To The Rescue After East Village Fire
NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 26: Civilians watch firefighters battle a blaze caused by an explosion that forced two buildings to collapse on Second Avenue in Manhattan's East Village on March 26, 2015 in New York City. Officials have reported that at least 12 people were injured but it is unclear if anyone was trapped inside either building. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 26: Civilians watch firefighters battle a blaze caused by an explosion that forced two buildings to collapse on Second Avenue in Manhattan's East Village on March 26, 2015 in New York City. Officials have reported that at least 12 people were injured but it is unclear if anyone was trapped inside either building. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

First there was the smell of gas, then an explosion and a burst of flying glass. Smoke and a hail of hot ash spattered onto the pavement of Second Avenue in the East Village as a red-brick building folded into itself on Thursday afternoon. Flames licked out of some windows, and the bottom floors blew out.

The blast and fire, which injured at least 19 people, four critically, also served as a call to action for those who could help.

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