An explosion occurred in a building on rue Cordouan, in the historic center of La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime), Monday November 25, 2024 in the early evening. A 63-year-old woman who lived in a third-floor apartment was killed, reports France Blue La Rochelle.
After the explosion, a fire broke out. The fire spread to the roof. For safety, neighboring buildings were evacuated. Luckily, they were not affected by the flames. In total, sixteen people were evacuated. Seven of them were rehoused by the town hall, indicates France 3 New Aquitaine.
An ongoing investigation
As of Monday evening, the reason for the explosion and the exact level of the blast had not yet been determined. The explosion could have occurred on the ground floor, where there is a laundromat, closed for a long time. The front of the business was destroyed, firefighters told local television. An investigation has been opened.
A major emergency response system was deployed. In total, 45 firefighters were mobilized. Police officers and gendarmes were also present.
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