On Wednesday, May 26, at least six people were confirmed dead and 11 others were missing after a fire broke out at a hostel in the New Zealand town of It’s considered one of the worst fire tragedies in New Zealand’s history, and police are currently treating it as arson.
The fire started in the early hours of the morning, and by the time emergency services arrived, the building was completely engulfed in flames. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze, but they were unable to save everyone.
According to the hostel’s owner, there were around 50 people staying in the building at the time of the fire, most of whom were backpackers from around the world. It’s believed that the victims came from a number of different countries, though their identities have not been released.
The prime minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, issued a statement expressing her condolences to the families and friends of the victims. “This is an incredibly difficult and tragic time for the families and friends of those involved in this tragedy,” she said. “Our thoughts are with them, and with those who are still missing.”
Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire, but they have confirmed that they are treating it as arson. The police have asked anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire to come forward if they have any information that could assist with the investigation.
The fire has shocked and devastated the small town of It’s considered one of the worst tragedies in the town’s history, and it has brought an outpouring of grief and support from people around the world. People have been leaving flowers and messages of sympathy outside the hostel, and many have taken to social media to express their condolences.
The owners of the hostel have also expressed their sorrow over the tragedy. In a statement, they said: “We are absolutely devastated by what has happened. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives, and with those who are still missing. We are cooperating fully with the authorities, and we will do everything we can to assist with their investigation.”
As the investigation continues, the people of It’s considered one of the worst tragedies in New Zealand’s history, and it will take time for the town and the country to come to terms with what has happened. But in the midst of the sorrow and grief, there are also stories of heroism and resilience, as emergency workers and members of the community rally together to support each other.
