Sunday December 15, 2024, an arson attack hit the Trois-Cités district in Poitiers, an area already marked by recurring problems linked to drug trafficking. The disaster, which was extremely violent, mobilized significant relief resources and left behind a heavy human toll.
An arson
The fire broke out early in the morning, shortly after six o'clock, at the foot of a four-story building. According to the first elements of the investigation, it was caused by the fire of several supermarket trolleys and a scooter stored near the entrance to the building. Very quickly, the flames spread to the upper floors, trapping several residents in their homes. On site, witnesses described scenes of panic, with residents calling for help from their windows.
A heavy toll
In total, 19 people had to be evacuated by firefighters. Among them, a 75-year-old woman, suffering from serious burns to her respiratory tract, was transported in absolute emergency to the Poitiers University Hospital. Three children and an adult were also treated in relative emergency. The other victims, some of whom inhaled toxic fumes, were directed to a local public school, made available for their temporary accommodation.
The intervention mobilized nearly 70 firefighters, who fought for several hours to control the fire and secure the building. A difficult job, given the rapid spread of the flames and the thick smoke which invaded the stairwells.
The investigation is ongoing
The authorities have opened an investigation into “damage by arson”. This was entrusted to the property crime brigade of the Poitiers police station. Initial investigations confirm a possible link with drug trafficking, a recurring problem in the Trois-Cités district. According to sources close to the matter, the foot of the burned building had long served as a deal point before its dismantling by the police last summer.
A neighborhood under tension
The Trois-Cités district, already under increased surveillance, is often associated with violence and illicit activities. For several months, the police services have been carrying out regular operations there as part of the fight against drug trafficking. This new dramatic event highlights the tensions that continue to mark this area and once again raises the question of security and prevention in these fragile neighborhoods.
This arson, beyond its criminal implications, traumatized the residents of the neighborhood. ““It’s a tragedy,” a local resident told the local press, evoking fear and incomprehension in the face of this deliberate act. The victims, supported by local authorities and associations, are now trying to rebuild their lives after this nightmarish night.
This tragedy, in addition to highlighting the security and social issues in the neighborhood, calls for a strong response from public authorities to prevent new criminal acts and guarantee the safety of residents.
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