A Bronx memorial honors 17 lives lost in the 2022 Twin Parks North West fire, which displaced many in the Gambian community and prompted reflections on fire safety.
Memorial Services Held for Bronx Fire Victims
FORDHAM HEIGHTS, The Bronx (WABC) — Memorial services took place on Friday to mark four years since the deadly high-rise apartment building fire in the Bronx that claimed 17 lives.
The fire occurred on January 9, 2022, at the 19-story Twin Parks North West apartment building in the Tremont section.
This tragedy had a lasting impact on the Gambian community in the Bronx.
The emotional trauma is clear, but many were also displaced by the fire.
For decades, Twin Parks North West was the first American home for many Gambians. After the tragedy, many survivors moved away, affected by the events.
Wreath-Laying Ceremony and Remembrance
To honor the day, elected officials, including Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, held a wreath-laying ceremony on Friday afternoon. They remembered the 17 lives lost, including eight children.
Meanwhile, Mayor Zohran Mamdani attended a remembrance ceremony and prayer vigil near the apartment building on Friday evening.
Impact of the Fire
Some families lost five members in the fire, which started from space heaters. The fire spread when stairwell doors did not close properly on that cold day four years ago.
Congressmember Ritchie Torres spoke to Eyewitness News on his way into the prayer service. He stated that this tragedy is about more than just space heaters and fire safety.
He noted that the four worst fires in the city occurred in the Bronx, which he believes is not a coincidence.
| Event | Date | Location | Lives Lost | Notable Attendees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fire | January 9, 2022 | Twin Parks North West, Bronx | 17 | Vanessa Gibson, Zohran Mamdani, Ritchie Torres |
| Memorial Service | January 9, 2026 | Fordham Heights, Bronx | 17 | Bronx Borough President, Mayor, Congressmember |
