Body camera footage released by the New York City Police Department shows officers being knocked to the ground by an explosion at a home in South Ozone Park, Queens, before returning to the scene to assist people inside, including children, as reported [1] by the New York Post.
The incident happened on Thursday morning while officers responded to a domestic dispute at a multi-family residence. According to police, officers were at the front door attempting to gain entry with keys when a sudden explosion occurred, sending them backward and lighting up the predawn sky.
In the video, officers can be seen helping each other to their feet and moving away from the immediate area. One officer is heard saying, “The guy just lit the house on fire. We have explosions.”
Despite the blast, officers quickly returned toward the home as residents attempted to get out. The footage shows officers assisting individuals leaving the building, including children.
“Give me the kid, give me the kid,” one officer called out to a woman carrying a small child.
Authorities said the person believed responsible for the explosion, Anrup Parasram, allegedly entered the basement apartment where his estranged wife, daughter, and two grandchildren lived. According to police and sources, investigators believe he used an accelerant and set himself on fire, which led to the explosion.
Parasram’s body was later found in the rubble after the fire was brought under control. The incident resulted in a five-alarm fire that drew a large emergency response.
Police said eight officers were treated for minor injuries related to the explosion, while four additional officers were also hurt. Fire officials reported that 16 people were displaced as a result of the fire.
Jessica Tisch commended the actions of the officers following the incident in a post on X.
“They were hurt. They had just been thrown to the ground by an explosion,” Tisch said.
“And in that moment, with no clear sense of what else they might be walking into, they made the decision to keep moving forward.
“Their focus stayed exactly where it needed to be: on the people inside, on getting those children out, and on making sure that situation didn’t claim innocent lives.”
The explosion occurred as officers were attempting to enter the home in response to the domestic dispute call. Officials have not released additional details about the initial call or events leading up to the incident.
Emergency crews remained at the scene as authorities worked to secure the area and assess damage to the structure. The investigation into the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion is ongoing.