Floor Collapse in Paris Apartment Injures 20 Guests During Birthday Celebration

A birthday celebration in a Paris apartment was abruptly disrupted when the floor of the fifth-floor residence gave way, causing dozens of guests to fall to the level below. The incident occurred in a multi-storey building located in the 11th arrondissement, an area known for its high residential density between the Place de la Bastille and the Bataclan.

Approximately 50 attendees had gathered to mark a woman's 60th birthday when the floor collapsed shortly after midnight. According to officials, the collapse happened as guests were assembled, resulting in a sudden and unexpected drop into the fourth floor. Emergency services responded promptly, with reports indicating one person sustained serious injuries while 19 others suffered minor wounds. Paramedics also treated one individual who experienced cardiac arrest at the scene.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the collapse began in the central area of the living room, with guests from the periphery witnessing the floor buckle before the entire room gave way. Many attendees found themselves surrounded by debris and other guests, both above and below, as they landed on the lower level. Despite the shock, those present remained calm and avoided unnecessary movement to prevent further structural failure.

Firefighters and emergency teams secured the building and provided immediate medical care. Structural engineers assessed the building following the collapse and concluded that the overall integrity of the structure remained intact. However, safety measures were implemented, including the temporary reinforcement of the affected fourth floor to prevent additional hazards.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident may have been caused by excessive vibrations, possibly resulting from simultaneous jumping or movement during the celebration. Authorities have indicated that the apartment's floor was unable to withstand the sudden stress, leading to the partial collapse.

The 11th arrondissement, where the event occurred, is characterized by densely populated residential blocks, with many residents occupying compact living spaces due to high rental costs in central Paris. Such high occupancy, combined with the age and design of older buildings, can increase the risk of structural incidents, especially during large gatherings.

Officials have urged building owners and residents to be mindful of occupancy limits and the structural capacity of older properties, particularly when hosting large events. The affected building remains under observation as authorities continue their investigation into the precise causes of the collapse and assess any further risks to residents.

No fatalities have been reported, and most of the injured have received treatment for minor injuries. The incident underscores the importance of regular structural inspections and adherence to safety guidelines in residential buildings, especially in historic urban areas like central Paris.