In a devastating incident that unfolded during a wedding celebration in Iraq’s Nineveh province, more than 100 people lost their lives, and approximately 150 others sustained injuries as a raging fire engulfed a large events hall in the Hamdaniya district. The incident prompted a frantic search for survivors in the charred remains of the building, with civil defense teams tirelessly working into the early hours of Wednesday.
Deputy Governor Confirms Grim Toll
Nineveh Deputy Governor Hassan al-Allaq confirmed the grim toll, stating that 113 people had tragically lost their lives. State media sources initially reported the death toll to be at least 100, with 150 individuals suffering injuries of varying severity.
Celebration Turns Tragic
The calamity unfolded when the festive atmosphere turned into a nightmare as fireworks were ignited during the wedding celebration. Local civil defense officials reported that the fire swiftly consumed the events hall in the northeastern region, leaving attendees with little time to react.
Survivor’s Account
Imad Yohana, a 34-year-old survivor who managed to escape the inferno, recounted the horrifying scene, saying, “We saw the fire pulsating, coming out of the hall. Those who managed got out and those who didn’t got stuck. Even those who made their way out were broken.”
This tragic incident has cast a pall of sorrow over the Hamdaniya district and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures during large gatherings.
Summary:
- Over 100 people lost their lives and around 150 were injured in a devastating fire that swept through a wedding celebration in Hamdaniya, Iraq’s Nineveh province.
- Deputy Governor Hassan al-Allaq confirmed the death toll at 113, while state media initially reported at least 100 deaths and 150 injuries.
- The fire erupted when fireworks were ignited during the celebration, rapidly engulfing the events hall.
- Survivor Imad Yohana described the harrowing experience, emphasizing the chaos and urgency of the situation.
- The tragedy underscores the critical need for safety precautions during large gatherings.
