The landlord of an Inwood apartment building where three people died in a fast-moving fire at 207 Dyckman Street on May 4, 2026, is tied to several other New York City properties that collectively have nearly 1,000 open fire and safety violations, according to city records and lawsuits reviewed by the Daily News.
Ronemus & Vilensky, LLP, Attorneys at Law, represents several of the victims.
Jack Bick, head of JanJan Realty, had already appeared on the Public Advocate’s 2025 list of the city’s 100 worst landlords before a fire ripped through the building on Dyckman. The blaze claimed the lives of a well-known fashion editor, her mother, and another tenant. Officials also said four members of another resident’s family — including three young children — remain hospitalized in critical condition.
City records show the six-story building had 117 open violations, including defective self-closing doors and non-functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
In addition, five other buildings linked to Bick through city property records — including a neighboring six-story, 23-unit apartment building — have accumulated another 934 open violations, many involving conditions that could contribute to fire hazards, according to lawsuits filed last month by the city’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development against Bick and other associates.
As investigators move forward, it remains crucial for tenants and residents living in apartments to regularly verify their own building’s compliance with safety regulations. Checking for fire alarms, exit plans, and regular maintenance checks can be vital measures in ensuring personal safety.
In light of such harrowing events, conversations about safety in residential buildings continue to echo throughout the city. Those affected by fire-related incidents or who have concerns about their living conditions are encouraged to seek advice and support as necessary. As always, it is essential to remain vigilant about living conditions and address potential safety hazards promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the impact of the NYC apartment fire?
The fire resulted in three fatalities and 14 were injured.
What is being investigated in the NYC apartment fire?
Authorities are investigating the cause of the two-alarm fire, with the focus also on the landlord’s numerous safety violations.
What safety measures are recommended for apartment residents?
Residents are advised to verify their building’s compliance with safety regulations, ensure functioning fire alarms, and have an emergency exit plan.
Incident Details
- Location: Inwood, New York City — 207 Dyckman Street
- Date: May 4, 2026 at 12:30 AM
- Type: News Report
- Property: apartment building
- Injuries: 14 | Fatalities: 3
