Local authorities in France reported today, Wednesday, that 11 people have gone missing following a fire at a holiday home in the northeastern part of the country. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin noted that "there are likely to be several victims after the fire destroyed 300 square meters of the 500-square-meter building. Rescue operations are still ongoing."
Television channel "France 3" quoted local official Christophe Marot at the site, stating, "We are almost certain of the deaths of the missing," adding, "We are being cautious until all the bodies are located." It was reported that the missing individuals include ten adults and one staff member, indicating that the house, located in the town of Wintzenheim about 70 kilometers south of Strasbourg, is rented by a charity that supports people with learning difficulties.
Authorities evacuated 17 individuals, with one person sent to the hospital. The officials stated that the 11 missing people are adults. The fire broke out at 6:30 AM local time (4:30 AM GMT) in Wintzenheim and was quickly extinguished by firefighting teams.
