Mirkovce fire leaves 39 people homeless in Roma settlement

A fire in a Roma settlement in Mirkovce, located in the Prešov district, destroyed six dwellings in the early hours of Sunday. The blaze left 39 people homeless, including 15 adults and 24 children.

Mayor Marián Engel confirmed that the municipality has declared an emergency situation. Displaced residents are currently being housed in the municipal office hall. The municipality is also providing food and has obtained mattresses, bedding, and towels from the Ministry of Interior's civil protection warehouses.

Firefighting units arrived around 04:00 to manage the aftermath, as the fire had already been localized before their arrival. Due to thick smoke, responders utilized autonomous breathing apparatuses. Volunteer firefighters remain on-site to monitor the site while residents recover damaged belongings.