Crime & Safety
104 'Dangerous' Propane Tanks Stored Near LIC Apartments: Report
The 104 propane tanks, which were stored near the sidewalk, created "a grave risk of danger to the public," sources told the New York Post.
LONG ISLAND CITY, QUEENS — A 45-year-old man was arrested on Thursday for "very dangerously" storing over 100 propane tanks near apartments and stores in Long Island City, according to the FDNY and a new report.
Hary Arafa, the owner of a Halal business, was reportedly storing 104 propane tanks in an outdoor parking area near his business, located at 8-51 Astoria Boulevard in Long Island City, sources first told the New York Post.
Fire officials confirmed the report to Patch on Aug. 27.
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Sources told the Post that storing the tanks near the sidewalk and close to neighboring apartment buildings created "a grave risk of danger to the public."
Similarly, fire officials told Patch that illegally stored propane creates a "great safety risk," since gas can leak from the tanks and create an explosion hazard. The NYC Fire Code includes more information about how to safely, and legally, store propane, fire officials said.
Find out what's happening in Astoria-Long Island Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Arafa was reportedly arrested by FDNY Fire Marshals and charged with reckless endangerment, sources told the Post.
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