A fire engulfed a high-rise apartment building in Berlin, leading to a dramatic rescue on Friday morning. The blaze started in an 18-story residential building located in the Friedrichshain area of the German capital at approximately 6:30 a.m.
The fire began on the 11th floor and quickly spread to the apartment above. Flames were visible through multiple windows, and thick, black smoke billowed from the structure. Authorities described the incident as particularly challenging, involving many people and requiring substantial emergency personnel.
The Associated Press reported on the scale and intensity of this event.
A video captured a dramatic scene showing a woman in sweatpants maneuvering along the outside of an 11th-floor apartment. Surrounded by flames and smoke, she attempted to climb down to safety. Unable to find footing, she finally released her hold, taking a leap to a rescue basket managed by a firefighter. The woman was unharmed, sustaining only minor injuries before being taken to the hospital for care.
Overall, 115 people were affected by the fire. Rescue teams evacuated 25 individuals using fire-escape hoods and ladder trucks. Thirteen suffered slight injuries and were treated by emergency services, with several transported to hospitals for continued treatment.
A significant emergency response was required, with 18 fire engines, two aerial ladder trucks, and nine ambulances on the scene. Police have not yet determined the cause of the fire.