In a heartbreaking incident, a fire erupted at a holiday home for disabled individuals in eastern France, resulting in the tragic loss of nine lives, with two more feared dead. The facility, located in the town of Wintzenheim near the border with Germany, was a retreat for people with disabilities, operated by a charitable organization. Among the victims were 10 adults with disabilities and a staff member.

The fire broke out at around 6:30 AM local time, prompting a swift response from fire and rescue services. Seventeen individuals were successfully evacuated from the premises, with one person requiring hospitalization due to injuries sustained during the incident. Authorities deployed 76 firefighters, four fire engines, and four ambulances to the scene, managing to bring the blaze under control despite the intense flames.

Local authorities from Haut-Rhin Préfecture expressed their swift reaction to the situation, acknowledging the challenges posed by the fire’s severity. It was confirmed that those missing were part of a group from the city of Nancy, located approximately two hours away from Wintzenheim.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences, acknowledging the tragedy and extending his thoughts to the victims, the injured, and their families. The mayor of Nancy, Mathieu Klein, also expressed his grief over the incident on social media, highlighting the profound impact on the disabled community.

France’s Prime Minister, Elisabeth Borne, announced her intention to visit the site as part of the response efforts. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin provided an initial assessment of the damage, stating that a significant portion of the 500 square meter building had been consumed by the flames. He confirmed ongoing rescue operations, underlining the likely presence of multiple casualties.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this heart-wrenching incident, the community mourns the loss of lives and offers support to the families affected by the tragedy. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with authorities aiming to uncover the circumstances that led to this devastating event.