**Six Killed in Brussels Lift Shaft Fire at Construction Site**
Brussels, Belgium – A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday morning at a construction site in central Brussels, where six individuals were found dead inside a lift shaft following a fire that broke out at the Oxy tower. Local authorities reported that the fire ignited around 08:00 local time and was quickly brought under control, but not before it spread to the lift shafts where two lifts were trapped.
Firefighters engaged in a complex operation lasting several hours to recover the bodies from the lift shaft. Initially, officials indicated that at least six people were missing, prompting rescuers to focus on locating them. Brecht Speybrouck, spokesperson for the Brussels Labour Prosecutor’s Office, remarked during the rescue efforts that while they had discovered several victims after forcing open one of the lifts, there was a possibility of more individuals being trapped in the other lift or elsewhere at the site.
As the operation progressed, the prosecutor's office later confirmed the recovery of six bodies from one of the lifts. The victims' identities have not yet been disclosed, pending notification of their families.
Brussels Mayor Philippe Close expressed gratitude to the emergency services, commending them for their “exceptional job” under “particularly difficult circumstances.” The fire not only claimed lives but also left two individuals hospitalized with serious burns, while a firefighter received treatment at the scene for exposure to high temperatures.
The Oxy tower, located approximately 500 meters from the iconic Grand Place, is currently under construction and is designed to include residential apartments, a hotel, restaurants, and bars. The project has been a significant development in the area, and the fire has raised concerns regarding safety protocols at construction sites.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and King Philippe of Belgium visited the site later in the afternoon to assess the situation and offer their condolences. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by authorities, as they seek to determine the circumstances that led to this devastating event.
This incident marks a somber day for the city of Brussels, highlighting the inherent risks associated with construction work and the importance of stringent safety measures to protect workers. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of life and awaits further updates regarding the incident.