A devastating fire that engulfed a holiday home for disabled individuals in the eastern French town of Winztzenheim has left at least 11 people missing, prompting concerns about possible casualties, according to Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin.
The local government of Haut-Rhin issued a statement confirming the grim incident, revealing that 17 people were evacuated, with one individual transported to the hospital. Four fire engines and 76 firefighting personnel are currently on the scene, striving to contain the blaze that erupted in a welfare facility catering to young people with disabilities.
The fire, which began around 06:30 local time, has wreaked havoc in the town close to the German border. Despite efforts to control the inferno, it’s been reported that the building’s roof was consumed by the flames, leaving the charred wooden framework of the first floor exposed.
As reported by AFP, Christophe Marot, the head of the Bas-Rhin prefecture, conveyed distressing updates: individuals unaccounted for within the structure are presently regarded as “potentially deceased.” Addressing the media, Marot painted a somber picture, lamenting, “Regrettably, there is minimal uncertainty: all of these individuals were within the lodgings and faced insurmountable barriers to exit. Occupants on the ground level managed to evacuate swiftly, while those on the upper floors were tragically unable to do so.”
The welfare facility, which was severely damaged in the fire, was rented by an association aiding individuals with learning difficulties. The local authorities stated that the blaze is now under control, and firefighters continue to work tirelessly at the scene to douse remaining flames and clear debris.
Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne expressed her condolences on Twitter, announcing her plans to visit the site of the tragedy. She expressed her sympathy for the victims and their families, praising the efforts of the firefighters on the scene.
As the community grapples with this heart-wrenching incident, questions about the cause of the blaze linger. Christophe Marot confirmed that an investigation will be launched by regional prosecutors to determine the origins of the fire that has left a trail of devastation and uncertainty.
