A fire broke out on Tuesday at a building undergoing renovation in downtown Brussels, resulting in the deaths of at least six people. Two others were reported injured in the incident. Authorities confirmed that the victims were discovered inside an elevator at the site.
First responders faced significant challenges reaching the lift shaft, where at least 6 elevators had been obstructed. By Tuesday evening, the Labor Audit Office verified that six bodies had been recovered from one of the elevators, according to reports from the Belgian broadcaster RTBF. The victims have not yet been identified.
Brussels Mayor Philippe Close stated that rescue teams utilized sniffer dogs and thermal cameras to locate the individuals. He credited the immediate response of police, firefighters, and rescue workers for potentially preventing a larger tragedy. Reflecting on the event, Mayor Close noted that personnel on the scene acted with clear purpose.
In the hours following the blaze, Belgium's King Philippe visited the site alongside Prime Minister Bart De Wever to assess the situation. Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin expressed his shock regarding the tragedy, offering his condolences to the victims and their families via social media. He also extended his gratitude to the emergency services and fire department for their dedicated efforts during the response.
He said that “firefighters, rescue workers and police were there immediately. Everyone knew what they had to do and that probably helped to avoid a greater tragedy.”
