Two people were killed, and at least 11 others were injured after a fire tore through a five-story apartment building in the Bronx on Tuesday, according to the New York City Fire Department.

The fire broke out around 1:32 p.m. at 660 East 187th Street in a structure that included commercial storefronts on the ground floor and residential units above. Officials said the building contained two apartments behind the retail space on the first level and six apartments on each of the upper floors.

Firefighters arriving on scene encountered heavy flames on the first floor of the non-fireproof building, which is more than a century old and largely constructed of wood. Crews initially advanced inside with hose lines to combat the fire but were forced to shift to exterior operations as conditions worsened and flames spread to upper levels.

Deputy Assistant Chief Stacy Scanlon confirmed that two individuals were pronounced dead. Two others suffered serious injuries, while nine more, including five firefighters and four civilians, were treated for minor injuries.

Fire officials said more than 84 fire and EMS units responded, with over 270 personnel deployed to contain the blaze and assist residents. Ladder companies conducted multiple rescues from both the front and rear of the building, including at least one individual trapped at a window who was rescued using a portable ladder.

According to Chief of Fire Operations Kevin Woods, the structure sustained significant damage, and concerns remain about its stability due to the intensity of the fire and its age. Officials warned of a potential risk of partial collapse.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Fire marshals are continuing to investigate.