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Saint-Hilaire-de-Chaléons Church Tower Declared at Risk of Collapse, Residents Evacuated

Officials are seeking specialists to dismantle the tower summit with a high-capacity crane if one can be secured.

Overview

  • Roughly 50 people were ordered to leave their homes Tuesday evening after an architect and firefighters confirmed severe internal damage.
  • A 100-meter safety cordon is in place and access roads to the town center are closed.
  • Inspectors reported cracked stone, damaged joints and leaning columns beneath the 57–60 meter dome.
  • The primary school opposite the church is closed, with classes moved to alternative rooms or another site.
  • Most evacuees are staying with relatives, a reception center has opened, and no return date is set as the commune lines up contractors and a crane.