A day after a massive blaze sent residents scrambling to safety, they returned to clean up the mess at their Soundview buildings.

James Bonaparte considers himself lucky that he still has a home. He was one of several people evacuated Wednesday after high levels of carbon monoxide were detected. While most homes only had damaged siding, residents say the smell of burning oil still lingers from the fire at Apex Used Auto Parts at 1235 Bronx River Ave. One man says several of his windows are cracked and firefighters cut off his gas.

Officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire. The owner of the auto parts store says he is cooperating.

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