Multiple individuals have tragically lost their lives in an active fire at a 10-story residential building in the city of Antwerp, Belgium.
Emergency responders are currently engaged in a significant rescue operation following a fire outbreak at the August Vermeylenlaan structure, which houses over 200 residents in the Linkeroever district.
Reportedly, the fire is situated on the eighth floor, with authorities confirming that multiple fatalities have occurred while others have sustained injuries.
A resident named Geert Dewulf recounted to Belgian public television the harrowing experience of being trapped in his apartment due to thick smoke. He mentioned how they barricaded themselves inside and were eventually rescued by the fire brigade using a ladder from the balcony.
Local police have advised residents affected by the smoke to seal windows and doors and, if needed, deactivate ventilation systems. Multiple fire departments from various districts have been deployed to the scene.
Officials disclosed that a distress call was received by the local fire department at 9:53 am CEST (8:53 am BST) regarding a severe fire on the eighth floor of the 10-story building in the Linkeroever neighborhood of Antwerp.
The ongoing evacuation of the apartment building, which accommodates around 200 people, is in progress.
Sadly, authorities have confirmed several fatalities and numerous injuries resulting from the blaze at the Antwerp apartment block. The fire originated on the eighth floor of the building, which is home to more than 200 residents in the Linkeroever area, according to Antwerp police.
The building is situated in the Linkeroever region of Antwerp.