You are reading

DOT truck explodes on Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City: FDNY

A DOT truck caught fire and exploded on Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Lloyd Mitchell)

July 5, 2023 By Bill Parry

An explosion stunned lunchtime crowds along Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City Wednesday afternoon.

A truck from the city’s Department of Transportation was parked on Vernon near 47th Avenue when it caught fire and exploded just after 1 p.m. on July 5. The four DOT employees who were working on pothole repairs in the Long Island City area parked their truck and went to a nearby restaurant for lunch. They noticed the vehicle smoking and it eventually caught fire before ultimately exploding, causing the evacuation of several stores and restaurants along the corridor.

None of the four DOT employees were injured in the blast.

“Safety of our employees and others is a top priority and we will investigate today’s truck fire,” a DOT spokesman said.

While the DOT workers were unharmed, two civilians suffered minor injuries but refused medical attention from EMS at the scene, according to the FDNY.

There were no injuries to firefighters who responded and brought the fire under control a short while later.

email the author: news@queenspost.com

Featured Events

Post an Event

View All Events…

No comments yet

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News
May races in Queens: JFK Airport 5K, Forest Park trail classic and a Queensborough 5K

May. 16, 2025 By Paulina Albarracin

The energy of May is on full display across Queens, with a lineup of local races that invite runners of all levels to hit the pavement and the trails. With mild temperatures and sunny skies setting the stage, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the spring weather before the summer heat sets in. From the Forest Park 4 Mile Road and Trail Classic to the festive Great Hawaiian Luau 5K at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, these events offer more than just a workout—they foster community spirit and personal growth. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before lacing up and heading out. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, these May races offer a chance to challenge yourself and connect with others in motion.

Read More
0
Two women shot at Ocean Bay Apartments in Far Rockaway, gunman still at large: NYPD

Police from the 101st Precinct in Far Rockaway are looking for a gunman who shot two women at the Ocean Bay Apartments in Arverne on the night of Saturday, May 10.

The suspect is seen on video surveillance at around 9:35 p.m. approaching the southeast corner of the NYCHA complex at Beach 54th Street and Arverne Boulevard, where he pulled out a handgun and opened fire at a group of people, striking two women before running off. When officers responded to a 911 call of an assault in progress at the complex, which is also called the Oceanside Apartments, they found the two victims: a 34-year-old woman who was shot in both legs and a 32-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to her leg. EMS responded to the location and transported the victims to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where they were both listed in stable condition.

Read More
0
Op-ed | Justice for all delivery workers: It’s time to close the grocery pay gap

May. 15, 2025 By Rev. Dr. Phil Craig 

While one’s worth is not determined by an abundance of possessions, our faith teaches us that all workers deserve a just living. However, for many people in our communities, the way our laws are written are keeping them from enjoying equal pay for equal work. This is especially true for New Yorkers who support themselves and their families doing delivery work — and we stand alongside our lawmakers who are looking to change that. 

Read More
0
Load More Articles