Fatal fire in an Antwerp apartment tower

A fire broke out in a 10-storey residential building in Antwerp, Belgium, on Wednesday morning. Police spokesperson Kim Bastiaens confirmed that at least five people died in the incident. While initial local media reports suggested six fatalities, the figure was later officially revised to five. The building houses approximately 200 residents, many of whom were trapped until emergency services arrived. Rescuers used ropes and ladders to evacuate residents from balconies and the sides of the structure. Police have advised nearby residents to keep doors and windows closed due to the smoke hazard. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the number of injured has not yet been determined. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever acknowledged the tragedy, noting the country has faced several severe fires in recent weeks.