Two Moroccan migrants reported dead after warehouse fire in Brussels

A major warehouse fire in Anderlecht, a municipality of Brussels, has turned fatal after bodies were discovered in the building’s ruins, with Moroccan media reporting that two of the victims were Moroccan nationals.

Belgian authorities confirmed that bodies were found at the site and said a judicial investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire and the deaths.

The blaze broke out early Saturday near Avenue Maurice Herbet, with firefighters called to the scene around 7 a.m. Thick black smoke quickly spread over the area and was visible from several parts of the Belgian capital.

Due to the intensity of the fire and heavy smoke, authorities activated an emergency response plan. Residents were advised to remain indoors and keep doors and windows closed, while some nearby areas were evacuated as a precaution. Police secured the perimeter as emergency crews worked to contain the fire.

The incident was initially reported as a large industrial fire, but its severity increased after bodies were later found in the rubble. Belgian media, citing the Brussels prosecutor’s office, said an investigating judge has been appointed.

Moroccan media outlets later reported that at least two of the victims were Moroccan migrants, with some identifying them as a father and his son.

The cause of the fire remains unknown. Authorities are investigating whether it was accidental, linked to the building’s condition, or due to other factors.