ALBAWABA-A vehicle caught fire and exploded Tuesday evening near the iconic Charging Bull statue in Lower Manhattan’s Wall Street district, triggering panic among tourists and office workers in one of the city’s busiest financial areas. No injuries were reported.
According to the Fire Department of New York, emergency crews responded to reports of a vehicle fire near Broadway and Stone Street at approximately 5:42 p.m. local time on Tuesday.
Videos circulating on social media showed the parked vehicle, reportedly linked to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and described by witnesses as a tan Infiniti QX60 SUV, rapidly engulfed in flames before a powerful explosion sent a large fireball and thick black smoke into the air.
The dramatic blast prompted bystanders to flee the crowded area as firefighters quickly moved to contain the blaze. Authorities said the fire was brought under control shortly.
Officials confirmed that no civilians or first responders were injured in the incident. Preliminary investigations suggest the explosion may have resulted from a mechanical failure or vehicle malfunction, including a possible fuel tank rupture caused by extreme heat.
Authorities said there is no indication of criminal activity or terrorism.
The Charging Bull, one of New York City’s most visited tourist landmarks and a symbol of Wall Street’s financial strength and optimism, is located in a densely populated pedestrian and commercial zone.
Although the explosion drew widespread attention online and temporarily disrupted activity in the area, officials described the incident as isolated. They said there was no broader threat to public safety or financial operations in the district.
