All apartments in a residential building in Amsterdam are uninhabitable after a deadly fire.
A devastating fire broke out in a residential complex in the Amsterdam New West area on Sunday evening, resulting in one death and rendering all one hundred apartments uninhabitable. Authorities confirmed that the victim's body was found inside one of the apartments, but his identity has not yet been disclosed.
The fire started around 7 PM in an apartment on the third floor and quickly spread throughout the building, necessitating a large-scale evacuation. About 90 residents were evacuated and temporarily relocated to a nearby football club. Firefighters had to rescue several residents from their balconies using a lift due to the thick smoke.
Emergency teams worked for long hours to extinguish the flames and were eventually able to control the fire later that night. Two residents and two firefighters were examined at the scene for smoke inhalation, while another firefighter was taken to the hospital after suffering from heat exhaustion, and authorities confirmed that his condition is stable.
Despite the hope that previously existed for some residents to return to their homes soon, authorities announced that all one hundred apartments are currently uninhabitable due to severe damage caused by smoke, soot, and water. Many windows were also broken during ventilation operations, creating additional hazards from the scattered glass. Electricity and water have been cut off from several units.
The building is still closed and under continuous security surveillance. Temporary accommodation has been arranged in a hotel for residents who cannot stay with relatives or friends. The Stichting Salvage organization has also set up a support point outside the building to provide assistance and information to affected residents.
The police are still investigating the cause of the fire and whether there is any criminal suspicion behind the incident.