FRANCE – At least 3 people were killed in a fire at a house for disabled persons in Charente France after fire broke out at the middle of the night according to local reports.

The fire killed three people and left two missing, according to Jean-Charles Jobart, sub-prefect of Angouleme (a town in Charente), who spoke to broadcaster BFM TV.

Although the fire is out, Jobart noted that the death toll could rise throughout the day.

Four other victims were also evacuated to the hospital, including “one person in critical condition,” he added.

Around 12 people, including eight disabled individuals, were reported to be at the scene during the fire that destroyed 300 square meters (approximately 3,230 square feet) of the building.

An investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the fire, with the leading hypothesis remaining that it was accidental.