Man died at heavy house fire in Blankenberge (Blankenberge)

Around 1.30 pm a heavy fire broke out in a house in Kerkstraat in Uitkerke, an important approach to the seaside town. How the fire originated is currently still unclear. « The building was lit when the fire brigade arrived, » says ships Mitch de Geest, also acting mayor. The flames broke out when there were still cars on the busy approach road.

The fire brigade and police arrived en masse and completely finished the Kerkstraat in both directions for traffic. The Zeebruggelaan and the accompanying level crossing are currently also closed.

When extinguishing and entering the building, the fire brigade found a fatal victim. It may be the 38-year-old resident of the house, although an official identification still has to follow. « For one person, no help could no longer benefit, » said Mitch de Geest. « The public prosecutor’s office arrives and a fire expert was appointed. It is currently still guessing for the possible cause. »

Assylum

It was also considered whether the adjacent buildings are still habitable. « In the end we did not declare it uninhabitable, » said De Geest. « We have advised the residents of the adjacent buildings to spend the night somewhere else tonight. A lot of smoke has been entered in the houses involved. Incidentally, the residents have found care for their own. »