A fire that broke out at a retirement home in Milan during the early hours of Friday resulted in the death of six individuals, according to firefighters.

Several residents were hospitalized, and the fire brigade reported that numerous others suffered from smoke inhalation.

The three-story building, accommodating 167 people at the time of the incident, saw firefighters swiftly evacuate dozens of individuals, saving their lives.

The cause of the fire is still unknown and under investigation. Ambulances, fire trucks, and a mortuary van were present at the scene, with over 80 people rushed to the hospital.

Two individuals were in critical condition, while 14 others were in serious condition, as reported by Italian media.

The victims, comprising five women aged between 69 and 87, and a 73-year-old man, succumbed to the flames or smoke inhalation.

The evacuation proved challenging due to low visibility and the need to carry out residents, many of whom were unable to walk.

The authorities are working to relocate the affected individuals to other suitable retirement homes.

The retirement home, named “Casa per Coniugi,” provides assistance to those who are not self-sufficient but do not require hospitalization.