Yolaine Díaz, a Fashion & Beauty Writer for People en Español, died early Monday morning in a fire at a six-story apartment building in the Inwood section of Upper Manhattan, New York. Her mother, Ana Mirtha Lantigua, and a third person lost their lives in the blaze.
The blaze erupted around 12:30 a.m. inside a multi-story apartment building on Dyckman Street. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find heavy flames and smoke pouring from several floors. Residents were seen attempting to escape through windows and fire escapes as crews battled the intense heat.
More than 100 firefighters and emergency personnel responded to the scene. It took nearly two hours to bring the fire under control. FDNY officials confirmed that three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while five others were transported to nearby hospitals in critical condition.
Among the victims was Yolaine Diaz, 48 year-old, who died alongside her mother, 73, and their dog while trying to escape the burning building. Díaz’s stepfather survived the fire after managing to climb down the fire escape to safety. Neighbors said the two were well-known in the community and often seen walking their pet in the neighborhood. “They were kind, quiet people who always greeted everyone,” said one resident. “It’s heartbreaking to know they didn’t make it out.”
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as neighbors rushed to help those trapped inside. “People were screaming for help from the windows,” said another resident who lives across the street. “The smoke was so thick you couldn’t see the building.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. FDNY fire marshals are examining whether faulty wiring or an unattended appliance may have sparked the blaze. Officials have not yet released the identities of the other victims pending family notification.
City officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families and praised the firefighters for their swift response. “This is a heartbreaking tragedy for the Inwood community,” said a spokesperson for the mayor’s office. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected.”
The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents with temporary housing and emergency supplies. The building sustained significant damage, and several apartments are considered uninhabitable.
As investigators continue to determine the cause, the Inwood neighborhood is mourning the loss of life and rallying to support survivors of one of the area’s deadliest fires in recent years.
Image Source
- Yolaine Diaz: Instagram
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