A blaze at a 10-storey residential building in the Linkeroever district of Antwerp has resulted in at least six deaths and multiple injuries, according to local authorities. The emergency began shortly before 10:00 local time on Wednesday, with heavy smoke emanating from the upper three levels of the structure.
Video footage captured a resident climbing from a balcony into a neighboring window to avoid the smoke. Over 200 people reside in the complex, complicating the rescue efforts as firefighters systematically checked each unit. Police spokesperson Kim Bastiaens described the event as a significant tragedy, noting that numerous individuals sustained both serious and minor injuries.
Resident Geert Dewulf recounted the harrowing experience of being trapped by thick smoke until firefighters arrived with ladders to evacuate him. Meanwhile, family members confirmed that former Antwerp mayor Bob Cools was among those safely rescued and hospitalized.
While officials are investigating the origin of the fire, witnesses suggested that construction work was occurring on the roof. Antwerp fire brigade spokesperson Marie de Clercq noted that the density of the smoke and low visibility hindered firefighting operations. Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his condolences to those affected by the disaster.
