Investigation Launched for Central Rīga Fires on Thursday
In the heart of Riga, a significant fire broke out in a building on Laboratorijas Street. The blaze, deemed a high-hazard incident by Major Krišjānis Mincenbergs, Commander of the Riga Regional Department of the State Fire and Rescue Service, spread rapidly, causing concern for residents and nearby buildings.
More than 35 firefighters worked tirelessly on the scene, battling the ferocious flames. Eyewitnesses captured harrowing images and videos of the fire, which quickly engulfed the bottom of the house, spreading rapidly and threatening to consume everything in its path.
The residents of the affected house and neighbouring buildings were swiftly evacuated for safety reasons. This included dozens of people, including families with children and pets, who had to watch the firefighters work throughout the night. Among the evacuated was Valters, who managed to take his cat and important documents before leaving.
Several people were unable to evacuate the building on their own, and the Riga City Council's Housing and Environment Committee Chairman, Viesturs Zeps, is currently in contact with these residents to provide support and assistance.
The building, now in critical condition, has sustained damage to its load-bearing walls. Further action to remedy the danger will be decided after an inspection of the building, which is scheduled to take place in the near future.
The Riga municipality is offering assistance to the evacuated residents, including temporary accommodation, crisis benefits, and other social assistance. So far, two residents have agreed to temporary accommodation.
In a concerning turn of events, another fire had occurred nearby, prompting the State Police to initiate a criminal investigation. They are working to determine if the fire was intentionally set and if it's connected to the previous fire. As of now, there is no available information about who caused the fire in the building on Laboratorijas Street or whether it was deliberate.
Rihards, a neighbour, recalled opening his flat door to see big flames. Despite the initial belief that the fire was small, it quickly became apparent that it was spreading rapidly and potentially dangerous.
The community stands united, offering prayers and support to those affected by this unfortunate incident. The firefighters' brave efforts are greatly appreciated as they continue to work diligently to bring the situation under control.
