Tragic Fire Claims Six Lives in Novi Sad, Serbia
A devastating fire in Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city, resulted in six fatalities, including four children. Authorities suspect an electric scooter charging issue as the potential cause.
In the early hours of August 22, 2024, a devastating fire broke out in Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city, resulting in the loss of six lives, including four children. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. in this cultural hub, located approximately 90 kilometers north of Belgrade, the nation's capital.
Ivica Dacic, the Interior Minister, provided initial details about the tragic event. The children who perished in the fire were between the ages of 2 and 7. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but unfortunately, all victims had already succumbed to the fire by the time medical assistance reached them.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by a charging electric scooter. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to this tragedy.
Novi Sad, known as the "Serbian Athens" due to its cultural significance, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1694. The city, which serves as the capital of the autonomous province of Vojvodina, is home to approximately 360,000 residents. It has been an important industrial and financial center in the Serbian economy.
This incident has cast a shadow over the city, which has been celebrating its status as the European Capital of Culture in 2022. Novi Sad is renowned for hosting the annual Exit music festival, one of the largest in Europe, and is home to significant landmarks such as the 18th-century Petrovaradin Fortress.
The University of Novi Sad, founded in 1960, stands as one of the largest educational institutions in Central Europe. The city also houses the Serbian National Theatre, established in 1861, further cementing its cultural importance.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, it's worth noting that Novi Sad has faced adversity before, having been heavily damaged during the 1999 NATO bombing of Yugoslavia. The resilience of its people, coupled with the city's rich cultural heritage, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the healing process following this heartbreaking event.
Local authorities are expected to provide more information as the investigation progresses. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, particularly in residential areas.
