by A 76-year-old woman was killed in a tragic e-bike battery fire at a Queens pizzeria on Independence Day, becoming New York City’s first lithium-ion battery fatality of 2025.
What Happened
- Victim: Yuet Kiu Cheung, 76, was trapped in the bathroom of Singas Famous Pizzeria on Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, when an e-bike battery exploded outside the restroom.
- Time and Date: The fire broke out around 3 p.m. on July 4.
- Witness Accounts: Cheung heard “three explosions” and noticed a strange odor before being engulfed in flames as she tried to escape.
- Fire Behavior: FDNY officials said the battery exploded with a “blowtorch effect,” creating intense flames that spread rapidly.
- Injury and Death: Cheung suffered severe burns over nearly her entire body and died at the hospital the following day.
Family’s Reaction
- Her son, Tommy Ou Yang, described the horrifying scene and shared, “To find my mom burnt like a roast pig, almost 100 percent of her whole body, is a memory I cannot forget.”
- Cheung was remembered as a kind and loving grandmother beloved by her family and neighbors.
Fire Department Response
- FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker said the fire is a grim reminder of the deadly potential of lithium-ion batteries.
- Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn urged the public to avoid storing e-bikes or lithium-ion devices near exits or inside occupied buildings.
Background and Context
- This is NYC’s first fatal lithium-ion battery fire of 2025.
- In 2023, there were over 20 fatal fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
- FDNY officials emphasized the urgent need for public awareness and safety measures surrounding e-bike and mobility device batteries.
Key Warnings from Officials
- Never store e-bikes or lithium-ion batteries indoors or near entry/exit points.
- Avoid charging these devices overnight or unattended.
- Purchase devices and batteries that are UL-certified to reduce fire risk.
Commissioner Tucker’s Statement:
“These fires are treacherous… You don’t have many feet to move before you’re overtaken by fumes and flames.”
The FDNY has reiterated its ongoing efforts to reduce such tragedies, pledging not to stop until lithium-ion battery fire fatalities reach zero.
