Seven people, including firefighters and civilians, were hospitalized following a fire that broke out in a residential building near the “Mother Teresa” Hospital in Tirana on Tuesday afternoon.
According to local media reports, three firefighters and four civilians suffered smoke inhalation and were transported to the emergency department of the University Hospital Center Mother Teresa (QSUT) for medical treatment.
Emergency services responded rapidly to the scene, where the fire had spread across a multi-story apartment block, causing significant damage to the building’s façade. Firefighting teams carried out ongoing evacuation operations to rescue residents who remained inside the structure at the time of the incident.
Authorities deployed a large-scale response operation, including multiple firefighting units, ambulances, and support teams from civil emergency services. Military resources were also activated, with helicopters assisting in efforts to contain the blaze from the air.
At least two Cougar helicopters were reported to be involved in aerial firefighting operations, alongside dozens of emergency personnel on the ground. In total, approximately 50 responders, including civil protection teams and military units, were engaged in the operation.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and an investigation is expected to follow once the situation is fully brought under control.
Authorities confirmed that efforts are continuing to extinguish remaining hotspots and ensure the safety of all residents in the affected building.
