Berlin, Germany – In a horrific tragedy that unfolded in the early hours of Thursday morning, a massive fire broke out on the roof of a hospital in Ludwigslust, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, northern Germany. The fire resulted in the deaths of two patients and injuries to at least 34 people, according to initial reports which are still subject to change.
Details of the fire and rescue operations
The fire broke out at approximately 4:28 a.m. local time, concentrated on the roof of the building housing the radiology department. Thick smoke quickly spread throughout the clinic, prompting a massive emergency response. Police confirmed that 82 patients were in the hospital at the time of the incident. Medical teams and firefighters immediately launched a large-scale evacuation of the building. Patients were seen being moved to safety on hospital beds and in wheelchairs. Medical staff also successfully resuscitated a person who suffered cardiac arrest during the evacuation amidst the panic.
State of emergency continues
Large fire crews from the surrounding areas remain at the scene to contain the remaining flames and ensure the building’s safety. Authorities indicated that the situation is still “evolving dynamically.” Some hospital departments are currently operating under “emergency protocols” to receive critical cases. Furthermore, the LUP Klinik Ludwigslust is a major secondary care facility for the city and surrounding region. With a capacity of up to 160 beds, it is part of the LUP-Klinikum Helene von Bülow network.
Investigations are ongoing
Amidst the grief and shock, German authorities have launched an intensive investigation into the cause of the devastating fire. As of this writing, the cause of the blaze remains unknown. Police and criminal investigators are awaiting the results of their initial investigation. Further details regarding the condition of the 34 injured individuals receiving treatment have not yet been released.
