Several people have died in a fire that broke out Tuesday at the Oxy tower, a building under construction in central Brussels. Authorities reported at least six people missing following the incident.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. Firefighters discovered that the blaze had spread to the building's lift shafts, where two lifts were found to be stuck. Firefighters were able to open one of the lifts and found "several victims," according to Brecht Speybrouck, spokesperson for the Brussels Labour Prosecutor's Office. It is not yet confirmed if the missing individuals are among the victims found.
The mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, commended the emergency services for their response in "particularly difficult circumstances." The Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever, visited the scene, and King Philippe of the Belgians was also expected to attend.
Local media reported that two individuals were taken to the hospital with serious burns, and a firefighter received treatment at the scene for exposure to high temperatures. The Oxy tower, located about 500 meters from Brussels' central Grand Place, is planned to house apartments, a hotel, restaurants, and bars upon completion.