Dhaka, Bangladesh, Feb 21, 2019 / 12:19 pm
Pope Francis has offered his solidarity and prayers to victims of a massive fire in the center of the Bangladeshi capital, which has reportedly claimed 78 lives so far.
"His Holiness Pope Francis was saddened to learn of the loss of life and of the injuries caused by the conflagration in the centre of Dhaka," said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, Feb. 21.
"He extends his solidarity to all affected, and prays especially for the repose of the deceased and for the healing of those injured."
The fast-moving fire swept through a densely populated historic district of Dhaka late Wednesday night, the BBC reported. Many residents were trapped, including, reportedly, a bridal party. Many are still missing and the death toll is expected to rise.