Brooklyn Fire Rescue Turns Tragic: Man Falls to His Death from FDNY Ladder

Brooklyn Fire Rescue Turns Tragic: Man Falls to His Death from FDNY Ladder A 53-year-old man lost his life in a heartbreaking accident during a fire rescue operation in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, on Monday morning, May 23, 2025. Asif Hussain, an Uber driver originally from Pakistan, perished after falling from a retractable ladder deployed by the FDNY. The incident unfolded at approximately 7:00 AM at 3902 9th Avenue. Bystander video captures the terrifying moment Mr. Hussain climbed out of a third-floor window, smoke billowing behind him, only to fall as the top section of the ladder unexpectedly retracted. A firefighter was positioned at the top of the ladder, apparently ready to assist in the rescue. "It happened so fast," recounted a witness who declined to be identified, "One minute he was climbing down, the next he was on the ground." Emergency responders rushed Mr. Hussain to Maimonides Medical Center, where he was sadly pronounced dead. The FDNY has launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the accident, and the ladder involved has been taken out of service. The investigation will focus on the possible mechanical failure of the ladder, which may have contributed to the tragic outcome. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by both civilians and emergency personnel during fire rescue operations. The FDNY extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Hussain.