The fire broke out at around 2 am in the Matabiau neighbourhood of Toulouse. The residents of this four-storey block were caught unawares whilst they were asleep.
According to a provisional report provided to France 3 by the Haute-Garonne Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS) There are 2 patients in critical condition and 15 patients in a less serious condition. A total of around twenty people were treated.
90 firefighters were called to the scene to evacuate residents and tackle the blaze. The building was completely evacuated, as was the Bristol Hotel next door. A total of 87 people were taken to safety.
The Mass Casualty Plan (NoVi) has been activated by the emergency services.