At least six people have been killed and several others injured in a fire that broke out in an apartment tower in Antwerp, Belgium, according to local police. The blaze erupted on the morning of 1 July 2026, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Fire in Residential Tower
The building, which housed more than 200 residents, has been fully evacuated. Firefighters battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation under control. Police confirmed the death toll and noted that many residents were rescued from the high-rise structure.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. An investigation is underway. Emergency services treated the injured at the scene and transported some to nearby hospitals.
Evacuation and Aftermath
The Antwerp fire department received the alarm in the early hours and dispatched multiple units. Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke billowing from the upper floors. Rescue operations focused on evacuating residents trapped in their apartments.
Police urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work. The building remains cordoned off for safety inspections.
According to police spokesperson Kim De Bie, “The priority was to get everyone out safely. Unfortunately, we have to report six fatalities. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Community Response
Local authorities have set up a support center for displaced residents. The city of Antwerp expressed condolences and promised a thorough investigation. Fire safety experts are expected to assess the building's compliance with regulations.
This incident is one of the deadliest residential fires in Belgium in recent years. Officials are calling for increased fire safety measures in high-rise buildings.
