TRAGEDY STRUCK: Blaze Erupts During Alabama House Memorial, Dozens Feared Dead…
Tragedy struck early today at the Alabama State House of Representatives during what was meant to be a solemn memorial session. A sudden and devastating fire engulfed the chamber, claiming at least five lives and leaving 226 injured, according to early reports. The incident occurred while the House was in session, with a full roster of lawmakers, staffers, and guests in attendance.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as flames surged through the gallery just moments after a critical speech began. “It was like the entire building shook. Then came the smoke—and the screaming,” said one shaken aide who escaped through a side exit.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but the intensity of the blaze made rescue efforts extremely dangerous. Several individuals remain unaccounted for as firefighters continue to comb through the wreckage. Hospitals across Montgomery are now overwhelmed, treating burn victims and those suffering from smoke inhalation.
Officials have not confirmed the cause of the fire, but early speculation ranges from an electrical fault to foul play. Governor Elena Bryant has declared a state of emergency and vowed a full investigation into what she called “one of the darkest days in our state’s legislative history.”
The Alabama State House has been closed indefinitely. Flags across government buildings have been lowered to half-staff in mourning.
As the community grapples with the horror of what has unfolded, questions are mounting about security measures, emergency preparedness, and how such a disaster could occur in one of the most heavily monitored buildings in the state.
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