Notre Dame, the 856-year-old iconic cathedral in the heart of Paris, caught fire on Monday, multiple news outlets reported.
Police are telling pedestrians to avoid the area to allow for the passage of emergency vehicles, according to CNN. The fire was not yet under control at the time of publishing.
Notre Dame on fire pic.twitter.com/L0bX4PVZFX
— TPM Livewire (@TPMLiveWire) April 15, 2019
Police told Reuters the blaze was started by accident, related to ongoing construction work on the building.
Fire at Paris’ Notre Dame cathedral was started by accident and is related to ongoing work, according to France 2, citing police. Either way it is terrible and a hideous blow to the symbolic heart of the city
— Luke Baker (@BakerLuke) April 15, 2019
Just before 2 p.m. EST witnesses reported the steeple had collapsed into the inside of the church. After the spire fell, church spokesperson told French media that the church’s entire frame was burning, according to AP.
Notre Dame steeple collapses into the church pic.twitter.com/kZWZT2Nbfd
— TPM Livewire (@TPMLiveWire) April 15, 2019
French President Emmanuel Macron responded to the tragedy on Monday afternoon, not long after the steeple fell.
“I’m sad tonight to see this part of us burn,” he wrote, in French.
Notre-Dame de Paris en proie aux flammes. Émotion de toute une nation. Pensée pour tous les catholiques et pour tous les Français. Comme tous nos compatriotes, je suis triste ce soir de voir brûler cette part de nous.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 15, 2019
President Trump responded to the fire in real time, suggesting that France should employ flying water tankers to put it out.
“Must act quickly!”
So horrible to watch the massive fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Perhaps flying water tankers could be used to put it out. Must act quickly!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 15, 2019
First lady Melania Trump posted a more consolatory tweet.
My heart breaks for the people of Paris after seeing the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral. Praying for everyone’s safety.
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) April 15, 2019
