NYPD Identifies Suspect in Queens Explosion

A suspect is believed to be dead after a massive explosion and fire at a South Ozone Park, Queens, home early Thursday morning. The incident began as a domestic dispute involving a knife-wielding man, later identified as 50-year-old Anroop Parasram. Police responded to a 911 call around 2:42 a.m. reporting a domestic dispute and the smell of gas. Upon arrival, officers were met by a woman who provided keys to the basement apartment where the suspect was allegedly located. As officers attempted to enter, the house exploded, injuring seven police officers and a sergeant. The blast was so powerful that it sent officers flying and caused the house to collapse. A body believed to be Parasram's was recovered from the rubble. Police body camera footage captured the explosion and the immediate aftermath, showing officers quickly recovering and rushing into the burning home to evacuate residents, including children. All 11 residents of the building have been accounted for, though several were taken to the hospital. The NYPD is investigating whether Parasram intentionally set himself on fire in the basement. The explosion also damaged neighboring homes and displaced more than a dozen residents. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the use of cadaver dogs and drones to recover the body. Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh praised the officers' bravery, noting that the situation could have been far worse. The suspect had three expired orders of protection against him, according to law enforcement sources.