According to local sources, the fire broke out around 9 a.m. local time and was caused by an electrical failure in an air conditioning unit at the Coptic Abu Sifin church in the Imbaba neighborhood on Sunday.

They said that the fire blocked an entrance to the church, causing a stampede.

They added that thirty-five children between two and six years of age were among the victims of the blaze that ripped through the church. (ILKHA)