A devastating fire at the OXY Tower in central Brussels has resulted in multiple fatalities, with several victims discovered dead inside a lift. The blaze ignited on the second floor of the building near Place De Brouckère on Tuesday morning, July 14, 2026, before rapidly spreading into the lift shaft and triggering a secondary fire within one of the elevators.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services confirmed that several people were found deceased in a lift. Additionally, six individuals remain unaccounted for, and rescue crews are actively searching for them. Officials suspect that the missing persons may be trapped in another lift that firefighters have been unable to access due to the intensity of the fire and structural damage.
According to reports, the fire started on the second floor and quickly escalated, leading to the tragic loss of life. The exact number of victims has not yet been released, but authorities are working to identify the deceased and locate the missing.
Fire Spread and Response
The fire's progression into the lift shaft created a hazardous environment, complicating rescue operations. Firefighters from multiple stations responded to the scene, battling the blaze and attempting to reach those trapped. The OXY Tower, a prominent residential and commercial building, was partially evacuated, but the fire's rapid spread hindered a full evacuation.
Brussels emergency services have cordoned off the area, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway. Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke and flames emanating from the building's mid-level floors.
Community Impact and Ongoing Search
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents expressing grief and concern for the missing. Officials have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work unimpeded. The search for the six missing individuals continues, with specialized teams using thermal imaging and other equipment to locate survivors or recover remains.
This incident is one of the deadliest building fires in Brussels in recent years, highlighting critical safety concerns in high-rise structures. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
