QUEENS, NY – A fire ignited by an e-bike battery explosion inside a Queens pizza shop on July 4 resulted in the tragic death of a 76-year-old woman, drawing attention to the hazards of lithium-ion batteries. The incident unfolded at Singha’s Pizza in Flushing, where the victim became trapped by rapidly spreading flames.
Fire officials have confirmed that the blaze was caused by an e-bike charging near the restroom. The explosion left the woman stranded, unable to escape the fiery inferno that ensued.
This unfortunate event is the first recorded death this year in the city due to a lithium-ion battery fire. It underscores the urgent need for awareness and adherence to safety guidelines when handling such devices.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of storing e-bikes outside and away from exits to prevent similar occurrences. The city has already reported 122 battery-related fires this year, a slight increase from the previous year.
The victim, a cherished family member, leaves behind two sons and four granddaughters. Her family is devastated by the circumstances of her death and has sought legal action to address the tragedy.
City officials are now under pressure to reassess regulations concerning e-bike battery safety. The fire department is actively promoting public education on the risks associated with these batteries.
As investigations continue, the community is left to mourn the loss while advocating for stronger safety measures to prevent future tragedies of this nature.