An explosion and fire damaged three shops in Charleroi in the early hours of Friday, according to the Hainaut-Est fire brigade, confirming information published earlier by local media outlets. No deaths have been reported.
The explosion on Route de Philippeville in Marcinelle sent debris flying several hundred metres, according to the fire brigade. Seventeen firefighters were called to the scene, including two fire engines, several command vehicles and three tankers.
A garage opposite the affected shops also suffered damage to its façade. According to the Hainaut-Est emergency services, there were no fatalities at the scene. Six people living in flats above the shops will have to be moved.
A stability expert has been to the scene. "There was still some doubt about the floors and flats. But the homes are uninhabitable. The roof has been lifted and the load-bearing walls have been damaged. The stability of the premises is compromised. The occupants of the flats may be allowed to retrieve their belongings from the site," said the emergency services.
Informed of the facts, the Charleroi public prosecutor's office confirmed shortly after 09.40 that an expert had been appointed to determine the cause of the incident. The expert will visit the site with the forensic laboratory.
The judicial authorities also stated that "no theory is currently being favoured". According to the fire brigade, arson could be considered.
