A fire broke out in an apartment building in Bochum, Germany, on Tuesday morning, authorities said. The cause of the blaze has not yet been confirmed.
The fire reportedly started on the ground floor and quickly spread to the upper levels, making it difficult for firefighters to bring the situation under control. After sustained efforts, the fire was eventually extinguished.
Three people died in the incident—two women aged 25 and 27, and a 26-year-old man. Officials said the victims were Indian nationals.
Five others were hospitalised after suffering breathing difficulties. Their nationalities have not been disclosed.
Police are investigating whether the incident could be a homicide and are questioning a 41-year-old man from Romania in connection with the case.
