Fire in 10-story apartment building in Antwerp, Belgium, kills at least 5

(Antwerp, Belgium, July 1, CNA, via foreign press) Belgian police reported that a fire broke out this morning in a 10-story apartment building in Antwerp, killing at least 5 people.

A police spokesperson stated that it is too early to discuss the number of injured or the cause of the fire.

Reuters reporters witnessed rescue workers assisting residents in evacuating along the side of the building using ropes. Survivors described being trapped in their homes, but fortunately, firefighters arrived immediately.

Jaklien Heeren, an 80-year-old resident on the 5th floor, said she was fortunate to escape the fire.

She said, "I tried to go downstairs, opened the door and smelled something. I saw small flames and ran out, and after that, I didn't know anything. I escaped, I was lucky."

Heeren successfully escaped with her dog, but she said two neighbors had not answered their phones.

Local media had earlier reported that police stated 6 people had died, but this was later revised to 5. (Compiled by Yang Zhao-yan) 1150701

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