Multiple fatalities in Brussels building fire

A fire in a downtown Brussels building undergoing renovation has claimed multiple lives, with victims discovered in an elevator. The blaze broke out Tuesday morning in the Oxy building, a site being transformed into a multifunctional complex. Authorities confirmed that several deceased individuals were found in one elevator, and the exact number of victims and their identities remain unknown. Six people were reported missing.

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Several deceased individuals were discovered in an elevator.

Approximately 250 workers were on site when the fire erupted. Firefighters responded to a small fire on the second floor, but the victims were discovered only after the flames were extinguished. Another elevator remained inaccessible, raising concerns that more fatalities could be found within. Two workers were hospitalized with burns, and a firefighter suffered heatstroke during the rescue operations.

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It is not possible to rule out that further dead may be found in this one.

Brussels Mayor Philippe Close described the event as a profound tragedy and expressed support for those affected. The Oxy building, formerly a government administrative site, is being redeveloped to include offices, restaurants, hotel rooms, and residences. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the city's revitalization efforts.

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It is a tragedy that touches us deeply.