Queens Explosion: Several NYPD Officers Hospitalized in Ozone Park

NEW YORK — An early morning explosion in an Ozone Park residence has left several New York Police Department officers hospitalized with injuries. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, February 11, 2026, involved a house located near the busy Cross Bay Boulevard corridor, sending shockwaves through the quiet residential block and prompting a massive emergency response. The severity of the officers' conditions varies, though all are reported stable.

Officers Respond to Gas Leak Call

At approximately 4:30 a.m., NYPD officers from the 102nd Precinct were among the first responders dispatched to a report of a strong gas odor originating from a two-story home on 103rd Avenue, just a few blocks east of Cross Bay Boulevard. Upon arrival, the officers began evacuating neighboring residences as a precautionary measure. Fire Department of New York (FDNY) units and Con Edison crews were en route when the explosion occurred without warning.

“Our officers bravely entered a potentially hazardous situation to protect the public,” stated NYPD Commissioner Rebecca Thorne in a press conference later that morning. “Their actions undoubtedly prevented further casualties.” Commissioner Thorne confirmed that five officers were transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, with two suffering from concussions and three being treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns. All have since been released and are recovering at home, according to hospital staff.

Scene of Devastation and Ongoing Search

The explosion completely decimated the house, reducing it to a pile of rubble and debris, and severely damaged two adjacent properties. Debris was scattered across a 200-foot radius, reaching as far as Liberty Avenue. FDNY Assistant Chief Michael Callahan reported that 11 other individuals, including several civilians and Con Edison workers, also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene or local urgent care facilities. The search for a man believed to be the homeowner, identified as 55-year-old Arthur Jenkins, is ongoing.

Neighbors described hearing a loud boom that shook their homes, comparable to a thunderclap, followed by the immediate glow of a massive fire. Firefighters battled the intense blaze for over three hours, bringing it under control by 8:15 a.m. The Red Cross is providing assistance to five displaced families from the directly affected homes, offering temporary housing and necessities. This marks the third significant residential explosion in Queens in the last two years, highlighting potential infrastructure concerns.

Community Support for Injured Officers

News of the injured officers quickly spread through the Ozone Park and Howard Beach communities, sparking an outpouring of support. Local businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard have initiated fundraising efforts for the affected officers and their families. The Ozone Park Residents’ Association organized a candlelit vigil outside the 102nd Precinct station house on Wednesday evening, with dozens of community members attending.

“These officers are part of our family here in Ozone Park,” remarked Maria Gomez, president of the Ozone Park Residents’ Association. “They put their lives on the line every day, and we want them to know we appreciate their sacrifice.” Donations for the injured officers can be made at the community affairs desk of the 102nd Precinct. This incident underscores the inherent dangers faced by first responders in areas like Cross Bay Boulevard and its surroundings.

Investigation into Explosion Cause

Investigators from the FDNY Fire Marshal’s Office, NYPD Arson and Explosion Squad, and Con Edison are jointly probing the exact cause of the blast. While a gas leak is strongly suspected, the investigation remains active, examining potential ignition sources and structural factors. Con Edison crews worked through the day to secure gas lines in the immediate area, checking approximately 50 surrounding homes for leaks.

“Our priority is to ensure the safety of the community and to determine precisely what led to this devastating event,” said Con Edison spokesperson Jane Albright in a statement released at 1:00 p.m. She urged residents to report any suspicious odors immediately. Initial reports indicate a strong odor of natural gas had been present in the area for several hours prior to the explosion, but it was not reported to authorities until minutes before the blast, according to preliminary 911 call logs.

Long-Term Recovery and Safety Measures

The demolished property on 103rd Avenue is slated for full demolition by the Department of Buildings, and engineers are assessing the structural integrity of neighboring homes. Council Member Joann Ariola, whose district includes Ozone Park, has vowed to work with city agencies to provide resources for rebuilding and ensuring enhanced safety protocols moving forward. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of promptly reporting gas odors or other potential hazards.

“This was a tragedy that could have been far worse without the quick thinking of our first responders,” Council Member Ariola told the Queens Courier. “We must learn from this and redouble our efforts on public safety and infrastructure maintenance across Queens.” The Council Member's office announced an emergency fund for displaced residents, totaling $100,000, available starting next week. More information on the event and emergency response can be found in the ABC7 Eyewitness News report here.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ozone Park Explosion

What caused the explosion? The exact cause is still under investigation by the FDNY Fire Marshal’s Office, NYPD Arson and Explosion Squad, and Con Edison. However, a natural gas leak is the primary suspected cause, given initial reports and the strong odor detected before the blast.

How many officers were injured? Five NYPD officers were hospitalized following the explosion. They were treated for concussions, smoke inhalation, and minor burns, and all have been released from Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and are recovering at home.

Has the homeowner been found? The search for the homeowner, 55-year-old Arthur Jenkins, is ongoing. Authorities have not yet confirmed his whereabouts or condition following the blast.

What should residents do if they smell gas? If you smell natural gas, or hear a hissing or roaring sound of gas, immediately evacuate the area and call 911 or Con Edison's emergency number from a safe location. Do not use phones, light switches, or anything that could create a spark near the suspected leak.

How can the community help? Residents are encouraged to report any new information regarding the incident or the homeowner to the NYPD. Donations to support the injured officers and displaced families can be made through the 102nd Precinct Community Affairs Unit or the Red Cross.