Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Five were injured in a fire at Antwerp’s Forensic Psychiatric Centre, which led to 40 evacuations. Authorities suspect arson, and investigations continue.
There was a fire in the Forensic Psychiatric Centre in Antwerp’s Linkeroever. Five people who had suffered smoke inhalation had to be evacuated to hospitals, and some 40 others had to be evacuated for their safety while firefighting teams worked. Firefighters and doctors arrived on the scene and managed the situation. The evacuation was good, and the staff kept everyone safe.
What caused the fire at Antwerp’s Forensic Psychiatric Centre?
The authorities have concluded that the psychiatric centre fire was arson-related. Kim Bastiaens, an Antwerp police officer, said everything seems to point toward arson, but they have yet to determine how it started. Some reports have indicated that one of the residents might have set the fire, but this is not confirmed yet. The investigators will review the security footage and interview the witnesses to determine what happened. The incident presented a concern for the facility’s safety, particularly how they monitor the residents.
The fire has stopped, but it has really affected the staff and residents. Authorities are checking how much damage was done and are working to make the place safe again. They are providing support to the affected and will provide security to prevent such incidents from happening again. The investigation has not been stopped yet to reveal what started this fire and who will be involved in the legal consequences.
