Media365
The Brooklyn Bridge briefly caught fire on Saturday night as fireworks were launched from the bridge during Macy’s Fourth of July display over New York City’s East River.Videos circulating on social media showed flames and thick smoke rising from sections of the bridge while fireworks continued to burst overhead. At least three spots on the bridge appeared to catch fire during the display. The flames burned out within about a minute, according to a reporter from the New York Post.“It started as a small fire and got bigger. There was too much black smoke,” said Mohamed Shaban, 31, of Egypt, who witnessed the incident. “There were four at the same time. Some extra fireworks exploded due to the fire,” Khoula added.It was not immediately clear if the bridge sustained any damage. According to the city’s fire department, two fire engines were dispatched to the blaze. Officials said such fires are not unexpected during fireworks displays, which is why spectators stay at a safe distance.Across the US, Americans marked Independence Day with fireworks displays, parades, concerts and community events celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. However, severe weather and record-breaking heat forced several cities to delay, cancel or modify festivities while Trump is set to make a speech around midnight (local time).
