A devastating fire erupted at a nursing home in Tuzla, northeastern Bosnia-Herzegovina, on Tuesday night, resulting in the deaths of 10 residents and injuring 20 others, according to local police. The blaze began at approximately 20:45 local time (19:45 GMT) on the seventh floor of the retirement facility. Emergency responders, including firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, and staff, rushed to the scene, with around 20 individuals transported to a nearby medical center for treatment. Among the injured were several patients suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, three of whom required intensive care. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, prompting Prime Minister Nermin Nikšić to describe the incident as “a disaster of enormous proportions.” Authorities have pledged a thorough investigation once conditions permit. Željko Komšić, Chairman of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s tripartite presidency, extended condolences to the families of the victims and those injured. Eyewitness accounts, including that of resident Ruza Kajic, who lived on the third floor, described chaotic scenes as flames engulfed the upper floors, where many bed-ridden individuals resided. Footage from the scene captured the intensity of the blaze, with flames visible from the building’s windows. The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over the community, raising questions about safety protocols in such facilities.
