A fast-moving three-alarm fire heavily damaged the historic South Bushwick Reformed Church at 855 Bushwick Avenue in Brooklyn, New York, on June 19, 2026, drawing a large FDNY fire and EMS response.

FDNY received the initial call shortly after 1:20 p.m., with first-due companies arriving within approximately three minutes to find heavy fire conditions in the wood-frame church. The incident reached a third alarm within about 20 minutes, bringing 63 FDNY units and 192 fire and EMS personnel to the scene.

As fire extended through the church, rectory and a neighboring building, companies operated multiple handlines and aerial streams while protecting surrounding exposures. The church steeple became heavily involved and eventually collapsed during suppression operations.

No occupants were inside the church at the time of the fire. One firefighter sustained a minor injury and declined further medical treatment. Crews remained on scene extinguishing pockets of fire and checking surrounding structures for extension.

T he church, a New York City landmark, suffered extensive damage. Although the cause was initially under investigation, FDNY later determined the fire was intentionally set. A 24-year-old Brooklyn man was subsequently arrested and federally charged with arson. The charge remains an allegation unless proven in court.