Spain: Several Killed In Murcia Nightclub Fire

Multiple reports have been made about a fire gutting a nightclub in Spain's southeastern region early Sunday morning (October 1).

There are conflicting reports on how many have died at the scene, with Reuters reporting at least nine, while the BBC estimated the fatalities at 11.

An additional four people were treated in hospital for smoke inhalation.

Murcia mayor Jose Ballesta told reporters that the fire broke out on the first floor of the Teatre nightclub in Atalayas, in the city's outskirts.

"We are devastated," he said on local broadcaster 24h, adding that rescuers were still searching for several reported missing people.

From Party to Peril

Murcia's fire service released footage showing firefighters working to control the blaze inside the club after it destroyed part of the roof. They alleged that the fire began at around 06:00 local time (04:00 UTC), but has since been brought under control. Ballesta also said emergency services were working to establish the cause of the fire.

Outside the club, young people visiting the club were seen hugging each other and looking shocked as they waited for information about the missing.

In response to the incident, Ballesta declared three days of mourning for the victims who died, as flags were flown at half-mast outside the Murcia City Hall.

A press conference is scheduled for 12:30 local time Sunday (10:30 UTC), CNN reported.

This is a developing story. Please follow HNGN for more updates.

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Spain, Fire, Nightclub