One person has died, three others have been injured, and an unknown number of people are missing after an explosion and fire caused a building to collapse in The Hague on Saturday, according to the city’s mayor.
Mayor Jan van Zanen, speaking at a press conference, stated that the missing individuals are believed to be trapped under the debris, adding that the chances of finding survivors are slim.
The incident occurred shortly after 6 a.m. local time (0500 GMT), though the cause of the disaster remains unclear.
Van Zanen reported that a small explosion preceded a larger blast.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed a car speeding away from the scene or has video footage to come forward with information.
Social media images from nearby buildings showed one section of the structure, including five apartments, reduced to ashes and rubble.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his shock over the tragedy and confirmed that the government is offering support to local authorities.
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