A devastating fire tore through the CP Natacao 2 Women’s Basketball Stadium late Tuesday evening, leaving 14 people dead and 23 others injured, emergency officials confirmed early Wednesday morning. The blaze, which broke out during a regional women’s basketball tournament, is being described as one of the worst sports-related tragedies in Portugal’s recent history.
The Incident
The stadium was reportedly near full capacity with fans, athletes, and staff when smoke began pouring from the northeast wing of the arena around 8:42 PM local time. Witnesses described confusion and panic as the fire spread rapidly through the lower concourse and into the spectator stands.
“We were watching the second quarter when we smelled smoke,” said one survivor. “Within minutes, people were screaming and running in every direction. The lights started to flicker, and that’s when we knew it was serious.”
Emergency Response
Firefighters arrived at the scene within ten minutes, but flames had already engulfed parts of the stadium’s roof and seating areas. It took nearly three hours and over 80 emergency personnel to contain the fire.
Lisbon Fire Chief Miguel Alves confirmed in a press briefing that 14 people were confirmed dead on-site, including two players, several staff members, and attendees. 23 others were rushed to nearby hospitals, several in critical condition, suffering from burns and smoke inhalation.
“This is a heartbreaking day for Lisbon and for all of Portugal,” Alves said. “We lost children, parents, and members of the basketball community. Our thoughts are with every family affected.”
Cause Under Investigation
Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by a faulty electrical unit in the stadium’s control room, though investigators are still working to determine the precise origin. Authorities are also reviewing recent safety inspection records, and sources indicate the stadium had passed a routine check just six months ago.
Portugal’s Minister of Internal Administration issued a statement calling for a full national investigation and promised that “if negligence is found, there will be accountability.”
National Mourning Declared
In response to the tragedy, the government has declared three days of national mourning, with flags at half-mast across the country. The Portuguese Basketball Federation has suspended all games and events until further notice.
International sports organizations and athletes across the world have sent condolences and support, including the FIBA Women’s League, UEFA, and Olympic Committees.
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