A shocking incident was caught on camera after a vehicle burst into flames and exploded near the famous Charging Bull statue in Lower Manhattan on May 19, triggering panic among tourists and office workers in the busy Wall Street area.
The incident took place near Broadway and Stone Street at around 5:42 pm, according to the Fire Department of New York (FDNY).
Videos circulating on social media showed the vehicle suddenly bursting into flames while parked along the roadside. Within moments, the blaze intensified, engulfing the vehicle before a powerful explosion sent a massive fireball into the air, shocking tourists and office workers nearby.
Eyewitness footage showed people gathered near the popular tourist attraction running away in panic as smoke spread rapidly through the area.
The vehicle reportedly appeared to be linked to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), although officials have not yet confirmed ownership details.
A vehicle caught fire and subsequently exploded near the iconic Charging Bull statue in New York City's Wall Street district pic.twitter.com/HmGaZ8J7Pv
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) May 20, 2026
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Soon after the incident, FDNY firefighters rushed to the spot after receiving emergency calls about the blaze. Emergency responders worked for more than an hour to bring the fire under control and secure nearby streets.
Authorities said the fire was fully extinguished shortly before 7 pm. Police also temporarily restricted access to parts of the area as a precautionary measure.
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Officials confirmed that no injuries or deaths were reported in the incident. Despite the intensity of the explosion, firefighters successfully prevented the flames from spreading to nearby buildings and vehicles.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities said mechanical failure and other possible causes have not been ruled out.