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Marcel Djiba, 55, was arrested by FDNY Fire Marshals for reckless endangerment in the first degree.

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker Announces Arrest of Man for Illegally Storing Large Quantities of Propane and Gasoline

July 21, 2025

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced Monday that FDNY Fire Marshals arrested Marcel Djiba, 55, for reckless endangerment in the first degree.

On Friday, July 18, Manhattan Dispatch received a call from a pedestrian reporting a yellow van storing a large quantity of propane in front of 72 Spring Street in Manhattan. An FDNY Ladder Company responded and upon investigation, discovered 82 20-pound propane cylinders and 12 portable gasoline containers inside the van. The Company requested HazMat, the FDNY's Bureau of Fire Prevention, and FDNY Fire Marshals to respond. During questioning, Mr. Djiba stated he was delivering propane to food trucks throughout New York City on behalf of a company. Fire Marshals placed him under arrest and charged him with reckless endangerment in the first degree. Djiba 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," said 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."

While at the scene, Fire Protection Inspectors observed two additional vans parked on Crosby Street at the corner of Spring Street. The vans were packed with paper products and one of them had four 20lb propane tanks inside with combustibles piled on top. These cylinders were removed, and Hazmat Logistics removed all propane from the location.

In addition to the reckless endangerment charge, Mr. Djiba violated several fire codes related to the storage and handling of flammable liquids and liquified petroleum gases. The case will be prosecuted by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.

This is the second hazardous propane related incident the FDNY has responded to in just one week. This case underscores the FDNY's continued efforts to identify and eliminate illegal and dangerous propane distribution operations throughout the city, particularly in high-traffic areas.

On Friday, July 18, Manhattan Dispatch received a call from a pedestrian reporting a yellow van storing a large quantity of propane in front of 72 Spring Street in Manhattan. An FDNY Ladder Company responded and upon investigation, discovered 82 20-pound propane cylinders and 12 portable gasoline containers inside the van.
On Friday, July 18, Manhattan Dispatch received a call from a pedestrian reporting a yellow van storing a large quantity of propane in front of 72 Spring Street in Manhattan. An FDNY Ladder Company responded and upon investigation, discovered 82 20-pound propane cylinders and 12 portable gasoline containers inside the van.