OZONE PARK, Queens — Shocking body camera footage released by the NYPD on Thursday shows the moment a domestic dispute call turned into a deadly explosion in a quiet Queens neighborhood.
At least eight police officers were injured and 16 residents have been displaced following the blast in Ozone Park, which authorities are describing as a deliberate and “horrific” act of violence.
The Moment of the Blast
The incident began at approximately 2:42 a.m. Thursday when officers responded to a 911 call regarding a domestic dispute involving a knife-wielding man at a three-family residence.
According to NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, family members reported that Anroop Parasaram, 50, had arrived at the home intoxicated, armed with a knife, and that there was a strong smell of gas in the building.
Newly released body camera footage captures the harrowing moment officers approached the front door. Just as one officer asked, “What’s his name?” a massive fireball erupted from the doorway, violently throwing several officers off their feet and into nearby gates.
Heroic Rescue Amid the Flames
Despite being dazed and injured by the explosion, the officers immediately rushed back into the engulfed building. Footage shows the chaotic scene as officers scrambled through debris to rescue several crying children and adults trapped inside the burning structure.
NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised the officers’ bravery on social media:
“They had just been thrown to the ground by an explosion… they made the decision to keep moving forward. Their focus stayed exactly where it needed to be: on the people inside.”
The Suspect: A History of Protection Orders
The suspect, Anroop Parasaram, remains unaccounted for. Police revealed that Parasaram had three expired protection orders against him by family members.
Witnesses and investigators say Parasaram forced his way into a basement apartment carrying two garbage bags filled with gas cans and an “unknown substance” shortly before the explosion occurred.
Public Safety Alert: If you see Anroop Parasaram or have information on his whereabouts, please contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.
Injury and Damage Report
- Injuries: Eight NYPD officers were treated for minor burns and lacerations. One firefighter and one EMS member also sustained minor injuries.
- Displacements: 16 people from the three-family home and neighboring buildings have been displaced.
- Current Status: The FDNY and NYPD are still conducting debris removal and searches at the active scene.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his gratitude to the first responders, stating, “I’m wishing all those injured a swift recovery… [they] worked under extremely difficult conditions to keep New Yorkers safe.”
Community Discussion: Is Enough Being Done?
This incident has reignited concerns regarding domestic violence and the effectiveness of protection orders in New York City.
What do you think, Queens?
- Are current protection orders doing enough to keep families safe from repeat offenders?
- Should there be more oversight when “expired” orders involve individuals with a history of threats?
Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you have any information regarding this incident, please reach out to local authorities immediately.
