Cairo, August 14 / BNA / The Egyptian Coptic Church said that a fire broke out in a church in a densely populated neighborhood in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, killing at least 41 people and injuring 14 others.
It was not immediately known what caused the fire to break out in the Abu Sefein Church in the Imbaba neighborhood, which is inhabited by the working class. A preliminary investigation indicated a short circuit, according to a police statement.
The Coptic Church reported the death toll, citing health officials. The Associated Press said the fire broke out while service was underway Sunday morning.
Fifteen fire engines were sent to the scene to put out the flames, while ambulances transported the injured to nearby hospitals.
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by phone with the second Coptic Christian Pope Tawadros II to offer his condolences, according to what the president’s office announced.
“I am closely following the developments of the tragic accident,” Sisi wrote on Facebook. I directed all concerned state agencies and institutions to take all necessary measures and to deal immediately with this incident and its effects.
HF