Overview
- A small fire began on the second floor of the OXY tower and was reported extinguished before flames spread into the elevator shaft and ignited an elevator.
- Firefighters found several victims inside one elevator through a small opening and are continuing searches for about six people still reported missing.
- Roughly 200 construction workers were evacuated from the site, two people with burns were taken to hospital, and emergency teams set up medical and psychological support.
- The Brussels Labour Prosecutor's Office has opened an inquiry focused on workplace safety, and city officials expressed condolences and thanked emergency responders.
- The 1970s cross-shaped OXY tower was under refurbishment to house apartments, restaurants and a rooftop bar, and investigators’ findings could prompt tighter safety checks at Brussels construction sites.