At least 11 dead following tragic fire at Algerian orphanage

A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of July 16, 2026, at the Fondation de l'Enfance Assistée, a state-run orphanage in the Mohammadia district of Algiers, Algeria.

The blaze, which began around 3:30 a.m., resulted in the tragic loss of at least 11 lives, including several children.

Rescue efforts were significantly complicated by security bars on the windows, which hindered firefighters as they attempted to reach those trapped inside.

The incident occurred during an exceptionally hot period in Algeria, a time already marked by widespread wildfires that have tested the nation's emergency response capabilities.

Following the disaster, the victims were honored at a funeral ceremony in Bakari, while an investigation into the exact cause of the fire is currently underway to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again.