Tuzla Nursing-Home Fire Kills 10, Injures 20 — Probe to Begin

Post by : Raina Nasser

A major fire swept through a nursing home in northeastern Bosnia-Herzegovina late Tuesday, leaving 10 residents dead and 20 others injured. Officials say the blaze began shortly after 20:45 on the facility's seventh floor.

Firefighters, police, medical teams and care-home staff responded quickly to evacuate occupants and provide urgent treatment. Twenty people were taken to a nearby medical centre; several suffered carbon monoxide poisoning and three patients are reported to be in critical condition in intensive care.

The origin of the fire remains unclear. Authorities have announced a comprehensive investigation will be carried out once investigators can safely enter the building. Prime Minister Nermin Nikšić described the incident as "a disaster of enormous proportions," stressing its seriousness.

Željko Komšić, chair of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s tripartite presidency, offered condolences to the victims’ families and assured support for those affected by the tragedy.

Residents recalled scenes of confusion and fear as flames spread. Ruza Kajic, who lived on the third floor, said she woke to cracking noises and watched burning debris fall from above. "I ran into the hallway and realised there were bed-ridden people on the upper floors," she said.

Video from the scene showed flames pouring from upper-floor windows while emergency crews worked to control the fire and evacuate residents. The incident has revived concerns about fire safety and emergency preparedness in multi-storey care facilities.

Authorities and care-sector officials are expected to review safety measures across similar institutions, amid calls for improved protections for elderly and immobile residents.