BELGRADE, Jan 20, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - A fire broke out early Monday at a retirement home on the outskirts of the Serbian capital Belgrade, killing six people and injuring seven, police said. 

"Six people lost their lives in this facility, which housed elderly residents. Thirteen people were rescued," Luka Causic, a police officer overseeing emergency services in the area, told reporters. 

"This is a great tragedy, but it could have been much worse," said Causic, adding that there were about 30 people in the building when the fire erupted at 3:30 am.

The seven injured were taken to Belgrade's military hospital for treatment.

The blaze was extinguished by firefighters.

"The cause will be determined in the coming hours," Causic said, adding that the firefighters acted fast, despite the facility being located in a remote area.