Fire in Istanbul Five-Story Building Traps Seven; Four Hospitalized

A fire erupted in the basement of a five-story residential building in Istanbul's Çağlayan neighborhood around 6 a.m. Wednesday, quickly spreading smoke throughout the structure. Multiple fire, medical, and police teams responded to the emergency call.

Police cordoned off the area while firefighters worked to control the blaze. The fire was brought under control swiftly. Firefighters rescued seven residents, including three children, who were trapped on the upper floors by the thick smoke. Four people who inhaled smoke received initial treatment from paramedics at the scene before being transported to a hospital.

The entire building was evacuated as a precaution. Residents watched the scene unfold from the street, some with curiosity, others in panic. After approximately one hour of work, firefighters extinguished the fire and ventilated the building. An investigation into the cause of the fire has been launched.