Overview
- A fire broke out in an elevator shaft of the Oxy building under renovation in central Brussels and was put out by firefighters before rescue teams discovered multiple bodies in an elevator.
- Rescuers could not initially reach a second elevator and authorities say several people remain missing, so officials have not released a final death toll.
- About 250 workers were on site for elevator installation when the blaze occurred during the renovation work, which helps explain the large number of people affected.
- Two construction workers were hospitalized with burns and one firefighter suffered heatstroke while crews conducted firefighting and recovery operations.
- The public prosecutor has taken charge of the probe and local leaders have pledged support for victims and families as investigators examine safety practices during the renovation.