By Albert Amateau and Tequila Minsky
A fire that broke out at 68 Thompson St. between Broome and Spring Sts. shortly before 2 a.m. Fri., Aug. 5, went to three alarms, forced residents to flee the seven-story tenement, and caused smoke inhalation injuries to 10 firefighters.
Fire marshals investigating the blaze’s cause found “a large quantity” of marijuana in Apt. 15 and alerted police, who arrested the tenant, Jennifer Tzar, 44. Tzar was identified in the media as a rock photographer who has shot the likes of Ozzy Osbourne and Snoop Dogg. Tzar was charged with first-degree criminal possession of marijuana.
Firefighters received the alarm at 1:53 a.m. and arrived at the scene six minutes later. Thirty-three ladder and engine trucks and 138 firefighters responded to the call. There was major damage to the roof. Close to 40 apartments were vacated. The Red Cross put up a number of people at a nearby hotel, as well as one at 49th St. and Tenth Ave.
Residents of the adjoining building at 72 Thompson St. were also evacuated but returned later after their building was deemed safe.
