Rouen bar fire: At least 13 dead and six injured after blaze at birthday party
Early reports suggested that the fire was started accidentally
At least 13 people died after a fire swept through a bar in Rouen, northern France.
Police reported that the blaze broke out during a birthday party.
Bernard Cazeneuve, French Interior Minister, gave an initial count of 13 dead and six injured.
He said more than 50 firefighters were battling the fire in the centre of the city in Normandy. The fire started late Friday night or shortly after midnight.
Local reports suggested that the fire began when candles on the cake were lit, with flames spreading to the ceiling.
A judicial inquiry has been opened.
More follows
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies