A devastating fire has struck a holiday home for individuals with disabilities in eastern France, leaving 11 people missing and 17 evacuated. The incident unfolded in Wintzenheim, close to the German border, during the early hours of Wednesday.
Gerald Darmanin, France’s Interior Minister, communicated the grim news via Twitter, indicating that despite the swift and courageous intervention of the fire department, casualties were reported. Rescue efforts were ongoing at the time of his statement.
The Haut-Rhin regional administration revealed that the fire ignited at 6:30 a.m. in private lodgings in Wintzenheim. Among the evacuated were adults with “slight intellectual disabilities.” Christophe Marot, the secretary general of the local administration, confirmed that 10 disabled individuals and one accompanying person were among the missing.
The group typically resides in Nancy, east France, and were utilizing the building for their vacation. The fire department promptly dispatched 76 firefighters, four fire engines, and four ambulances to contain the blaze and attend to the victims. An additional 40 police officers were mobilized for assistance.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences and gratitude to emergency services on social media, while Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne headed to the scene to assess the situation.
This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of individuals with disabilities during emergencies and underscores the vital role of first responders in such critical situations.