French authorities said that at least nine people died and two others went missing after a fire broke out in a holiday home in eastern France early on Wednesday morning.
Firefighters were alerted to the blaze in Wintzenheim, a small town near the German border about 315 miles (500 kilometers) east of Paris, at 6:33 AM, according to Philippe Hauwiller, head of rescue operations in the city.

The first responders arrived at the scene after 14 minutes, having already evacuated 17 people from the house, but there were still 11 people inside. Due to the severity of the flames upon their arrival, Hauwiller stated it was "very likely" that those who could not get out had already died by the time firefighters arrived on site.

The prefecture stated that authorities deployed 76 firefighters, four fire trucks, and four ambulances, and the fire was under control by 9 AM.

Christophe Marot, a senior official in Haut-Rhin, told CNN that those inside the building were unable to escape the fire, adding, "We know that people are trapped; it's extremely tragic."

The 500 square meter (5,400 square foot) house was hosting people with disabilities during the summer holiday. The Haut-Rhin prefecture stated that the group was visiting Nancy, a city located 140 kilometers (87 miles) northwest of Wintzenheim.

Leroy said that all the visitors were adults and believed to be between the ages of 27 and 50. He mentioned that the building they were staying in was "completely destroyed" by the fire, leaving only the ground floor.

Hauwiller said that authorities have no evidence regarding the cause of the fire, but an investigation has been opened.

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin reported several injuries, "despite the quick and courageous intervention of the firefighting team, which has been praised."

President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences to those affected and thanked the first responders in a statement, saying, "In the face of this tragedy, I extend my condolences to the victims, the injured, and their loved ones. Thank you to our security forces and emergency services."

Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne stated that she will travel to the city with Aurélie Bergé, the minister for solidarity, autonomy, and people with disabilities, saying, "My heart goes out to the victims and their loved ones," while also praising the response of the firefighters.