FDNY, New York City agencies announce closure of illegal cannabis grow operation

September 20, 2024

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker joined Mayor Eric Adams and other New York City agency leaders on Thursday, September 19, 2024, to announce the closure of an illegal cannabis grow operation at a residential building in the Bronx.

"Grow houses are very, very dangerous," Fire Commissioner Tucker said.

The FDNY knows all too well the dangers of these operations. In 2016, FDNY Battalion Chief Mike Fahy responded to reports of a gas leak at a home in the Kingsbridge section of the Bronx. While evacuating residents in the vicinity of the odor, an explosion occurred on the top floor of the house. Chief Fahy was struck and killed by falling debris. The home ended up being an illegal cannabis grow operation.

"We will never forget Chief Fahy, and we do not want anything like this to happen again," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "The FDNY is fully committed to being a part of any action like what took place (Wednesday). We will be here, and we will work hard to keep New Yorkers safe and keep the members of law enforcement and public safety safe."

New York City Mayor Eric Adams added: "Illegal cannabis operations like this one—and the products they sell—endanger our young people and quality of life for all of our communities. The city will not tolerate it and the community will not tolerate it."

Law enforcement officials seized nearly 100 plants and 24 pounds of loose cannabis flower.