A devastating fire in Nice, France, has claimed the lives of seven people, including three children and a teenager. Authorities are investigating arson as the possible cause of the blaze.
The fire erupted early Thursday morning in a residential building, engulfing the seventh and top floor in the Moulin district. Despite a rapid response from firefighters with 25 vehicles and 72 personnel, seven people perished in the flames.
“The immediate reaction of the firefighters undoubtedly helped prevent many more victims,” assured French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. “Police are now working to determine the circumstances of this terrible tragedy.”
One resident, a 47-year-old man, is in critical condition after jumping from a window to escape the fire. Two others sustained minor injuries. Firefighters successfully rescued 33 building occupants.
Investigators believe the fire may have been deliberately set. According to Ig Mutu, prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes department, the destroyed apartment was occupied by “a family believed to be of Comorian origin,” with a total of 10 people residing there.
Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli confirmed the arson suspicion, stating that three children and a teenager were among the dead. “Based on initial evidence,” Martinelli said, “I have opened an investigation into deliberate fire causing deaths.” He did not elaborate on the specific evidence leading to this conclusion.
Fire In France Kills Seven, Arson Suspected (greekcitytimes.com)