A fire broke out at Buddhayaram Temple in the Bronx, New York, at 6:00 AM on February 12th, 2025, killing a Thai monk and a Thai national who was temporarily staying at the temple.
Another monk was seriously injured and rushed to a local hospital, where he is now in stable condition, while three other monks are safe.
The blaze reportedly started on the second floor and spread rapidly. New York firefighters battled the flames for over two hours, facing freezing temperatures and strong winds. According to FDNY officials, more than 150 personnel were deployed to contain the fire.
Thai Consul General Somjai Taphaopong visited the site and the injured monk at the hospital. She assured support for the temple and coordinated relief efforts.
Founded in 1965, Buddhayaram Temple is the first Thai Buddhist temple in New York and the third in the U.S. The temple, housed in two adjoining townhouses, has been a spiritual hub for Thai Buddhists for over 60 years.
The cause of the blaze was not immediately known.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
