Fatal Fire in an Elderly Care Facility in Val-d’Oise: Three Dead and Nine Injured, Investigation Underway

A devastating fire broke out on Saturday, February 1st, at a nursing home in Bouffémont, Val-d’Oise, resulting in the deaths of three residents aged 68, 85, and 96. Nine other people, including seven residents and two staff members, were injured, mostly from smoke inhalation.

Fire Controlled in Minutes

The fire started around 7:15 AM on the third floor of the facility, where 75 residents were present. Quickly alerted by the staff, firefighters arrived at 7:31 AM, deploying 110 personnel and a large ladder to control the blaze. According to initial findings, the fire originated in the laundry room and spread to part of the third floor. The first and second floors were unaffected, and the residents from the affected area were relocated to other facilities.

Injured Individuals Taken Care of and Investigation Opened

Eight of the nine injured individuals were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The three fatalities died from smoke inhalation. The NOVI emergency plan, designed to manage a large number of victims, was activated.

The Montmorency gendarmerie, in collaboration with the Pontoise prosecutor’s office, is investigating the exact circumstances of the tragedy. While the cause of the fire has not been officially confirmed, initial findings suggest it was accidental.

A Community in Shock

Michel Lacoux, mayor of Bouffémont, expressed the community’s deep shock after the tragedy. He praised the rapid response of the emergency services and emphasized that the priority now is to support the affected families and residents.

The investigation continues to determine the precise cause of the fire and assess any potential responsibility.