A tragic incident in Fez, Morocco, has claimed the lives of 22 people and left 16 others injured after two adjoining buildings collapsed on Thursday night. Emergency crews worked through the night to rescue survivors as authorities launched an investigation into what caused the structures to give way.
According to local officials, the collapse happened in one of Fez’s densely populated neighbourhoods, an area known for older residential buildings. Rescue teams, including firefighters and medical personnel, responded quickly, pulling victims from the rubble and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.
The Moroccan government has ordered a full inquiry into the disaster. Investigators are expected to examine the structural condition of the buildings, maintenance records, and any potential safety violations that may have contributed to the collapse.
Residents of the area have expressed shock, recounting how the buildings crumbled suddenly, giving many occupants little time to escape. Community members and volunteers joined rescue workers at the scene, offering assistance and supporting families affected by the tragedy.
The city of Fez, celebrated for its historic architecture and UNESCO-listed old town, has faced concerns over aging buildings in certain districts. Thursday night’s collapse has renewed calls for stricter building inspections, improved urban safety measures, and more proactive maintenance of older structures to prevent similar disasters.
Authorities have assured the public that every effort is being made to support survivors, aid affected households, and implement measures to avert future incidents. As recovery efforts continue, the incident stands as one of the deadliest building collapses in the city in recent years.