CHELSEA, Manhattan — The FDNY says 25 civilians were injured in an explosion in Chelsea Saturday night, in a busy area teeming with restaurants, bars and pedestrians.
The explosion happened in a garbage can around 8:30 p.m. in front of 135 23rd St. between Sixth and Seventh avenues. The building, Selis Manor, is an apartment complex for the blind.
“It was loud. It was very loud,” said Crown Heights resident Fredricke M. Farrell. “I was on 21st street and the blast sounded like it was right next door.”
The FDNY says none of the injuries appear to be life-threatening at this time.
Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter announced Saturday night that the Nassau County Police Department is on heightened alert following the explosions in New York and New Jersey.
The victims were taken to area hospitals. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arson and explosives task force is responding to the explosion as well.
People in the area told PIX11 they could feel the vibrations from the outdoor explosion.
“I was eating dinner and felt the vibrations of the blast,” said Yemi Osibogun, a Bronx resident who was seated at a nearby sushi restaurant. “My plate actually shook.”
Facebook activated their safety check feature for the explosion, allowing users nearby to tag their safety.
