Five people were killed and one more was hospitalized after a deadly fire swept through a home in the small eastern French town of Neuves-Maisons overnight Saturday.

Local prosecutors and emergency services have opened an investigation into the blaze.

Authorities said that roughly 70 firefighters supported by about 40 emergency vehicles responded to the fire after it erupted at the house.

The fire has since been extinguished, but the damage was severe and the community deeply shaken.

Local media outlet Ici Lorraine, citing police sources, reported the victims included a couple and three young people, aged between 17 and 20 — identified as the couple’s son and two of his friends.

A sixth person was treated for smoke inhalation; fortunately, officials said their condition is not life-threatening.

In response to the tragedy, the local Prefecture announced that the town hall will establish an emergency medical-psychological support unit to assist residents affected by the incident.

Meanwhile, the has initiated a formal inquiry. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the blaze, whether it was accidental or the result of negligence or other factors.

The tragedy has reverberated throughout Neuves-Maisons, a town unaccustomed to such fatal incidents. Local authorities and social services are urging calm and cooperation while they gather evidence and support grieving families. (ILKHA)