No victims found overnight at Hague apartment collapse; 5 dead, others may be missing

Emergency crews recovered a fifth body Saturday evening from the rubble of the Tarwekamp apartment complex in The Hague, which partially collapsed earlier in the day following a series of explosions. The local fire department confirmed the discovery, adding to the growing toll of what officials have called a devastating tragedy.

Four bodies were found earlier, and one person was rescued alive around 6 p.m., fire department officials said. That individual was transported to a hospital by ambulance. In total, four people have been hospitalized, two of whom are in critical condition. Another victim received medical attention on-site and was taken to a shelter.

Rescue workers and investigators spent the night digging through the wreckage of the apartment building and nearby stores, using heavy machinery to sift through the debris. Excavators removed large sections of rubble, which firefighters then combed through by hand, using rakes to search for personal belongings and evidence that might explain the cause of the explosions. Items recovered included a stuffed animal, a bag, and scattered papers.

Authorities have yet to determine the total number of people who may still be trapped beneath the debris. "Perhaps no one is left under the rubble, but it's also possible that we will find more victims," a spokesperson for the regional safety office said early Sunday morning.

The cause of the explosions remains unclear, and officials have not speculated publicly. Mayor Van Zanen emphasized that investigators face significant challenges. "It is incredibly complicated to carefully uncover the truth under these circumstances," he said.

Pathologists in protective gear and a senior detective monitored the site as excavators worked overnight. Emergency responders are prioritizing thoroughness, with no timeline yet for when the search will conclude.