A major explosion shattered the peaceful morning in The Hague, resulting in the partial collapse of an apartment building on Tarwekamp Street in the Mariahoeve district. Dutch police have confirmed that four bodies have been recovered from the rubble.
The identities of the victims remain unknown as authorities continue to search for more survivors amidst the debris. Earlier in the evening, a lone survivor was rescued and transported to a hospital for treatment. Mayor Jan van Zanen addressed the community, acknowledging the grim reality that further victims may be discovered, potentially raising the death toll to around 20.
\"The reality is that their chances of survival are very slim. We are preparing for the worst-case scenario,\" the mayor said.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his shock and sadness on social media, while King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima offered their heartfelt sympathies to those affected.
Emergency services are diligently working to determine the cause of the explosion, which has left the building's facade significantly damaged, especially the ground-level shops and the two residential floors above. A car was reportedly seen speeding away from the scene shortly after the explosion, and authorities are appealing to witnesses for more information.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
