Spanish authorities report that a tragic fire has claimed the lives of at least seven individuals at a nightclub in the southeastern city of Murcia.
The fire occurred in the Teatre nightclub, a popular establishment situated in the Atalayas area, around 06:00 local time (04:00 GMT).
Officials have expressed concern that the death toll may increase as emergency services continue to search for individuals who were inside the premises during the incident.
“The number of deaths inside the Atalayas nightclub has risen to seven,” Murcia Mayor Jose Ballesta wrote on X.
“We are devastated,” he said on Spanish TV channel 24h, adding rescuers were still searching for several people reported missing.
Emergency services reported that firefighters successfully gained access to the nightclub at approximately 08:00, where they tragically discovered four bodies. About 40 minutes later, they found two more victims.
Additionally, four individuals are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital for smoke inhalation, and a local sports venue is being utilized to provide counseling and support to those affected by this devastating incident.
The cause of the fire, which occurred while the club was still bustling with patrons, remains unclear.
The Murcia town hall expressed its profound sorrow regarding the accident and extended condolences to all those impacted by this tragic event.