Four dead, 19 missing as fire devastates two buildings in Spain

A fire erupted in two residential buildings in Valencia, Spain, on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and the disappearance of 19 others, according to authorities. Fleeing residents were forced onto balconies, where firefighters managed to rescue some. Firefighters promptly responded to the scene on the city center’s outskirts, where flames engulfed the 14-story residential building believed to be the origin of the blaze. Residents were observed awaiting rescue on balconies, and firefighters utilized a crane to lift two individuals from one of the balconies. Jorge Suarez, Valencia’s assistant emergency services director, informed reporters that four fatalities had been confirmed. He also mentioned that approximately six hours after the fire commenced, firefighters were working to cool down the exterior of the building before attempting entry. Additionally, soldiers from Spain’s military emergency unit were deployed, and medics erected a large tent to provide medical assistance to the injured at the scene. The cause of the fire remained unknown, although news reports suggested that it might have rapidly spread due to the building’s structural materials. Spain’s weather agency, Aemet, reported winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour. The fire broke out in the early evening and subsequently spread to an adjacent building, according to our correspondent. Reports from the scene revealed that besides the four individuals who lost their lives, at least 13 others sustained injuries, with most suffering from fractures, burns, and smoke inhalation. Among the injured were six firefighters. The exact number of people inside the buildings and those successfully rescued remains unclear. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his shock at the tragic incident in Valencia through a tweet on the X platform, offering the city all necessary assistance. He conveyed solidarity with those affected and expressed gratitude for the emergency personnel tirelessly working at the scene.