A major fire broke out on January 31, 2025, at approximately 7:30 PM, engulfing the roof of a four-story residential building located at 2 Boulevard de la Trémouille, near Republic Square in Dijon. Eyewitnesses reported flames shooting several meters high, prompting immediate concern from local authorities and bystanders.
The incident was first detected by surveillance cameras monitored by urban supervision teams, who quickly alerted the local police. Officers were the first on the scene, arriving before fire services and coordinating the evacuation of the building and nearby structures. Soon after, approximately 50 firefighters, supported by ten fire engines and three hoses, were engaged to combat the inferno. Colonel Bertrand Lepoutère of the SDIS 21 (Departmental Fire and Rescue Service of Côte-d'Or) confirmed, "A fire broke out around 7:30 PM at the top of the building, and it totally destroyed the roof."
By 10:45 PM, the fire was reported under control, with teams continuing to monitor the scene for any rekindling. Firefighters prepared to remain through the night, ensuring safety and security around the premises, maintaining the perimeter closed to the public.
The mayor of Dijon, Nathalie Koenders, arrived at the scene shortly after the fires erupted to provide support and assess the damage. She confirmed to reporters, "Four people need relocation," as the fire left these residents homeless and awaiting assistance from local social action services.
Major disruption accompanied the fire, with tram services halted during the emergency response. The police maintained control over the area, preventing hundreds of onlookers from getting too close. One resident, visibly shaken, expressed her disbelief, stating, "I think I will never see my apartment again. I was living with others. I’m left with uncertainty; I’ll have to live elsewhere. I should have come home two hours earlier. I escaped the worst. I can’t believe it. We are all alive," capturing the emotional toll this incident has exacted on the community.
Initial reports indicated no casualties from the fire, with all residents having been evacuated safely. Firefighters dedicated themselves to significant organization of efforts, using drones and multiple apparatus to battle the flames efficiently. The building was fully surveyed for occupants, with continued vigilance to avoid re-ignition.
Eyewitness reactions varied, with many expressing shock at the rapid development of the fire and its sheer scale. Reports of people gathering at the square showcased both the community's concern and their determination to understand the severity of the situation. “I never witnessed something like this,” noted one nearby resident who described watching the flames roil against the darkening evening sky.
The cause of the fire is still unconfirmed, and investigations will follow to determine how such a disaster could occur in the heart of the town. Michael Reggazzoni, the SDIS on-site commander, ensured, "There are no casualties at this moment, but we continue reconnaissance operations" to guarantee thorough and comprehensive safety procedures.
For the residents displaced by the fire, the local community supervisors are working to provide temporary housing and support. The local social action center is mobilizing resources to assist those affected as they navigate their recovery following this harrowing event.
While the building's past as part of Dijon’s architecture is now marred by this catastrophe, the resilient spirit of its community ignites hope amid despair. The investigation and recovery efforts will pave the way for the long road to rebuilding lives and restoring homes, proving once again the strength of collective support amid crisis.