Several people have been found dead inside a lift after a devastating fire tore through the OXY Tower, a luxury high-rise in central Brussels. The discovery was made on Tuesday afternoon as emergency crews responded to a blaze that spread into the lift shaft.
Fire Breaks Out in Mixed-Use Building
The fire started on the second floor of the OXY Tower near Place De Brouckère on Tuesday morning. Firefighters quickly extinguished the initial blaze, but flames entered the lift shaft, igniting a second fire inside one of the lifts. That blaze has since been brought under control.
Officials have not confirmed the exact number of fatalities, but the Labour Division of the Public Prosecutor's Office stated that multiple bodies were found. Six people remain unaccounted for and may be trapped in another lift that rescue teams have not yet been able to access.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Two people with burn injuries were taken to the Military Hospital in Neder-over-Heembeek for treatment. A firefighter suffering from heatstroke was treated at the scene. Construction workers from the building site were evacuated and taken to the staff canteen at the City of Brussels' administrative centre, where support teams provided assistance.
Brussels Fire Brigade spokesperson Walter Derieuw said: "Psychological support is being provided there by the Red Cross. In addition to the internal emergency plan, a medical response plan and a psychosocial support plan have also been put in place."
Investigation Ongoing
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire. The OXY Tower is a prominent development containing apartments, restaurants, and a rooftop bar. Search teams remain at the scene, attempting to reach the inaccessible lift and account for the six missing individuals. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the operation continues.
