Multiple individuals have tragically lost their lives in an active fire incident at a 10-story residential building in the city of Antwerp, Belgium.
Emergency responders are currently engaged in a significant rescue operation following the outbreak of a fire at the August Vermeylenlaan structure, which accommodates over 200 residents in the Linkeroever district. The fire was reported around 10 am CEST (9 am BST) on the eighth floor, as confirmed by local authorities who have sadly announced the loss of multiple lives and injuries to others.
Geert Dewulf, a resident, recounted his experience of being trapped in thick smoke within his apartment, stating that they had to secure themselves inside and await rescue on their balcony, where the fire brigade eventually reached them with a ladder.
Law enforcement officials have urged nearby residents affected by the smoke to seal windows and doors and potentially deactivate ventilation systems for safety. Various fire departments from different districts are present at the scene to assist in managing the situation.
The initial distress call to the local fire department came in at 9:53 am CEST (8:53 am BST) reporting a severe fire on the eighth floor of the residential complex in the Linkeroever vicinity of Antwerp. Efforts are underway to evacuate the 10-story building, which serves as the home to approximately 200 people.
The incident has resulted in several fatalities and numerous injuries, as confirmed by Antwerp police. The fire originated on the eighth floor of the building where a significant number of residents reside in the Linkeroever neighborhood.
The building is situated in the Linkeroever area of Antwerp.
