Fire in Molenbeek Apartment Building, Residents Safe

Sint-Jans-Molenbeek witnessed a significant fire in a four-story apartment building, which resulted in extensive damage to four apartments. The blaze, which originated in the gutter and rapidly spread to the roof, prompted a swift evacuation of residents. Fortunately, all occupants were safely removed from the building, with two individuals receiving treatment for mild smoke inhalation. The fire department responded promptly to the emergency, with spokesperson Walter Derieuw highlighting the importance of their quick action in ensuring the safety of the residents. The fire's rapid escalation posed serious risks to both the building's structural integrity and the safety of those inside. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported, and the fire brigade managed to control the situation effectively. Despite the successful evacuation, the fire caused considerable damage, including the destruction of part of the roof. As a result, four apartments are currently uninhabitable—two due to fire damage and two from water damage incurred during firefighting efforts. The social housing company Molenbeekse Haard has arranged temporary accommodations for the displaced residents while repairs are underway. To maintain safety and prevent further incidents, the Brussels police established a security perimeter around the affected building as cleanup and restoration efforts commenced. The community is now focused on recovery and support for those impacted by this unfortunate event.