A fire tore through an apartment building in New York's borough of the Bronx late Thursday, killing at least six people and injuring at least nine others, US media reported.

US media said at least six people were killed in the blaze, which broke out on the third floor of the multi-dwelling building at around 7:00 pm (0000 GMT Friday) on a bitterly cold night.

The Fire Department reported at least 15 serious injuries to civilians. The flames were under control, the department said.