July 21, 2025 New York, NY – A potentially catastrophic explosion in a bustling Manhattan neighborhood was narrowly avoided this past Friday, thanks to a sharp-eyed pedestrian and the rapid response of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced Monday the arrest of 55-year-old Marcel Djiba for reckless endangerment in the first degree, after he was found operating a mobile propane depot on wheels.
A Risky Business Uncovered
The incident unfolded on Friday, July 18, when Manhattan Dispatch received a call from a concerned citizen reporting a yellow van laden with a large quantity of propane cylinders parked ominously in front of 72 Spring Street in Soho. An FDNY Ladder Company quickly arrived on the scene and, upon investigation, made a startling discovery: 82 20-pound propane cylinders and 12 portable gasoline containers packed inside the van.
Given the explosive nature of the cargo, the Ladder Company immediately called for backup, bringing in specialized units including HazMat, the FDNY's Bureau of Fire Prevention, and FDNY Fire Marshals.
Repeat Offender with a Dangerous Habit
During questioning, Mr. Djiba admitted he was delivering propane to food trucks across New York City on behalf of a company. He was promptly arrested and charged with reckless endangerment in the first degree. This isn't Djiba's first brush with the law for such a dangerous enterprise; he was previously arrested by Fire Marshals in 2010 for a similar incident involving the illegal transport of hazardous materials.
“This was an incredibly dangerous situation, and one that could have caused a catastrophic explosion in a crowded neighborhood,” stated FDNY Commissioner Tucker. “Thanks to a vigilant New Yorker who spoke up and the swift response of FDNY members, we were able to prevent a potential disaster. This is exactly why we urge the public: if you see something, say something.”
More Hazardous Finds
The investigation didn't stop with Djiba's van. While on scene, Fire Protection Inspectors discovered two additional vans on Crosby Street at the corner of Spring Street. These vehicles were crammed with paper products, and one contained four more 20-pound propane tanks, dangerously piled with other combustibles. These additional cylinders were immediately removed, and Hazmat Logistics safely cleared all propane from the location.
