Three firefighters and several residents injured in University Heights fire

(CBS, KYMA/KECY) - Crews were on the scene of a five-alarm fire in the University Heights section of the Bronx on Sunday night.

The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) said three firefighters were injured, including at least one critically, and one EMS worker was also injured. City Councilwoman Pierina Sanchez, who represents the area, said several residents were taken to local hospitals.

"We're praying for healing, safety, and strength for our community," Councilwoman Sanchez wrote in a post to X.

Officials said the fire started around 7:30 p.m. Eastern on the first floor of a multi-family home and spread to other homes located between Webb Avenue and West 190th Street.

The blaze, which damaged three homes, prompted a massive response, including 44 units. Nearly 200 fire and EMS personnel arrived on scene to help put out the flames.

The FDNY said flames engulfed the residential building and sent black smoke billowing into the air, blanketing the area, as firefighters battled the flames from the ground and from above on a ladder.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.