One Firefighter Dead, Three Injured in Brussels Gas Explosion

A gas explosion near Brussels Central Station on Friday claimed the life of one firefighter and left three others injured. The incident occurred around 3:15 PM local time while repairs were underway to fix a gas leak in the vicinity of the station.

The explosions took place inside the building housing the Unique Resolution Centre, a European banking institution. According to Serena Galeone, a spokesperson for Sibelga, the Belgian public company managing electricity and natural gas supply, the repairs inadvertently caused a perforation in a low-pressure gas pipe. Gas accumulated within the structure, leading to the blasts.

In addition to the fatalities and injuries, the explosions necessitated the evacuation of about 100 people from a nearby building. The Brussels public transport company (STIB) reported diversions to tram and bus lines due to the incident. The Belgian Minister of Security and Interior, Bernard Quintin, expressed deep sorrow over the firefighter's death and offered condolences to his family and colleagues.

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Profound pain at the death of a firefighter following the events in Brussels. Words struggle to express our sadness. My condolences to his loved ones and the great family of firefighters. Thoughts and support to the victims.