Zlín, Czech Republic – A historic factory building partially collapsed after a massive fire broke out inside a multi-story warehouse at the former Baťa/Svit shoe factory complex on Vavrečkova Street.

The fire started on the ninth floor of Building 34 and rapidly spread through the structure rented by local footwear company Vasky, destroying or damaging an estimated 70,000 to 75,000 pairs of shoes.

Firefighters declared the highest emergency alert level and responded with more than 30 units and nearly 300 personnel.

Two helicopters, a Bell 412 and a Black Hawk equipped with Bambi buckets, carried out dozens of water drops while elevated platforms and drones supported the operation.

Parts of the building collapsed during the incident, and structural engineers restricted interior access due to safety concerns.

No injuries were reported among firefighters or civilians after nearby buildings were evacuated.

A chemical laboratory monitored air quality for harmful substances, while residents within a one-kilometer area were advised not to ventilate their homes or go outside.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation as crews continued monitoring the site overnight.

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