Five killed in deadly apartment fire near Barcelona

Five people lost their lives, and four others suffered minor injuries after a fire broke out in a residential building on Montseny Street in the town of Manlleu, near Barcelona, on February 16, local authorities said.

The newspaper Ara, citing a statement from the regional government, reported that the blaze began in a storage area located on the roof of a five-storey building that had been converted into living quarters. For reasons that remain unclear, the occupants inside were unable to escape.

Emergency services received the first alert at 21:10 local time, after residents reported smoke and flames coming from the top floor. Thirteen firefighting units were deployed, and authorities carried out a full evacuation of the building. The fire was brought under control by 21:41.

During search operations, rescue teams found five victims showing no signs of life. Medical crews — supported by 11 ambulances and two psychological assistance teams — attempted resuscitation, but the victims could not be saved.

Four additional people sustained minor injuries. Three were examined at the scene and released, while another declined hospital treatment.

The cause of the fire is being investigated by the regional police force, Mossos d'Esquadra.

By Tamilla Hasanova