Tag: Antwerp apartment fire

Antwerp Apartment Fire Kills Six, Dozens Injured After Massive Blaze Tragic Fire Breaks Out in Antwerp Residential Building At least six people lost their lives and several others suffered injuries after a devastating fire swept through a 10 storey apartment building in Antwerp, Belgium, on Wednesday morning. Emergency services rushed to the scene after the fire started shortly before 10:00 local time in the Linkeroever district. The blaze produced thick black smoke that quickly spread through the building, forcing residents to escape under dangerous conditions. Firefighters launched a large scale rescue operation as smoke filled multiple floors. Hundreds of Residents Affected Authorities confirmed that more than 200 people live in the apartment complex. Rescue teams evacuated around 80 flats to protect residents from the rapidly spreading smoke. Officials later said that a technical problem on the ground floor likely caused the fire. Investigators continue to examine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. Emergency crews remained at the site for several hours to secure the building and search every apartment for anyone who might still be trapped. Dramatic Escape Captured on Video Several residents faced terrifying moments while trying to escape. One widely shared video showed a man climbing from his balcony into a neighboring apartment through a window to avoid the heavy smoke. Another resident explained that smoke blocked every possible exit from his apartment. He and his family stayed inside, moved onto their balcony, and waited for firefighters. Rescue crews arrived with a ladder within minutes and safely brought them down. Firefighters Face Difficult Conditions Firefighters worked under extremely challenging conditions because thick smoke reduced visibility throughout the building. The smoke spread much faster than expected, making evacuations more difficult. Rescue teams searched each apartment one by one to ensure that no residents remained inside. Authorities said the fire was nearly under control by Wednesday afternoon, although emergency crews continued inspecting the building for safety. Families Escape, But Pets Could Not Be Saved One resident said his parents in law, including former Antwerp mayor Bob Cools, escaped safely and received medical treatment at a nearby hospital. He also shared that despite every effort by rescuers, the family's pet cat could not be saved. Belgian Leaders Express Condolences Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed sympathy for the victims, injured residents, and everyone affected by the tragedy. He described the incident as a heartbreaking event for the Linkeroever community. Lawmakers in the Flemish Parliament also honored the victims by observing a minute of silence before beginning their parliamentary session. Investigation Continues Authorities continue investigating the cause of the fire while engineers assess the building's structural safety. Officials are also providing support to displaced families who cannot yet return to their homes. The tragic incident has raised fresh concerns about fire safety in residential buildings and the importance of emergency evacuation procedures. Local authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation progresses.
News

Antwerp Apartment Fire Kills Six, Dozens Injured After Massive Blaze

Tragic Fire Breaks Out in Antwerp Residential Building At least six people…

Register Lost your password?