Written By Lisa Murimi
Seven people, including three children, have tragically died in a fire that broke out early Thursday morning in the southern French city of Nice. Authorities are investigating the blaze as a potential arson attack.
The fire engulfed the upper floors of an apartment block in Nice’s Moulins area, near the city’s airport.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed the involvement of three young children among the victims, stating that police would “shed light on the circumstances of this terrible tragedy.”
The fire started on the seventh floor, and Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli announced an inquiry into arson as the cause of death, based on initial findings.
Local reports indicate that the victims were all part of the same family, with the children aged five, seven, and ten. Two people attempted to escape through a window; one died, and the other is in critical condition.
Iftahou, a witness, told the Nice Matin website that upon arriving at the scene, he realized there was no hope for those trapped inside. Najim Maecha, head of the Comorian community in southern France, stated that he knew the family, who had lived in Nice since 2013.
Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi described the disaster’s human toll as extremely high.
Besides the seven fatalities, another 30 people suffered smoke inhalation. Estrosi has requested the deployment of security forces to ensure residents’ safety and prevent further incidents as the investigation into the potential arson continues.
