FDNY: East Harlem High-Rise Fire Was Arson; Suspect Charged With Attempted Murder

NEW YORK — The fire that tore through an East Harlem high-rise on Tuesday was intentionally set by a masked arsonist who poured gasoline inside the 32-story building before igniting it, the FDNY Uniformed Firefighters Association said Wednesday.

According to the union, FDNY Fire Marshals quickly identified and tracked the suspect, Evan Ostolaza, ultimately executing a search warrant that led to his arrest. Investigators also recovered a loaded firearm during the operation.

On 11/22/2025, a masked individual poured gasoline in the hallway of a 32-story East Harlem building and set it on fire.

FDNY Fire Marshals tracked the suspect to his residence, executed a search warrant, and recovered a loaded pistol. Evan Ostolaza now faces charges pic.twitter.com/oNoweKPcXM

— FDNY UFA (@UFANYC) December 10, 2025

Ostolaza now faces multiple charges, including second-degree arson, attempted murder, and criminal possession of a loaded weapon, officials said.

“Because of the Fire Marshals’ relentless work, a dangerous offender — and a weapon — are off the streets,” the UFA said in a statement on X.

The blaze prompted a major emergency response at the high-rise, though officials said the fast actions of firefighters and marshals prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome.

FDNY said the investigation is ongoing.