A young Iraqi couple whose wedding celebration turned to horror after a fire killed over 100 guests say the tragedy has left them too scarred to remain in their hometown.
Bride Haneen, 18, and groom Revan, 27, held their wedding in Qaraqosh, Iraq on Monday. But during festivities attended by 900 guests, a blaze broke out that officials say may have been sparked by electric fireworks. More than 100 people died and 150 were injured.
In an emotional interview, the couple said they are devastated and can no longer live where the tragedy occurred. Haneen lost 10 relatives including her mother, while Revan lost 15 family members. Haneen is reportedly unable to speak after the traumatic event.
Though the couple physically survived, Revan said, "Inside we are dead. We are numb. We are dead inside." The decision to leave their hometown was painful but necessary to escape the memories.
Revan recalled the chaos when the ceiling caught fire, possibly due to exposed wires. As flaming debris fell and panicked guests rushed to escape, he dragged his injured wife to safety despite being trampled by fleeing crowds.
Authorities are investigating the hall's highly flammable construction materials and use of electric fireworks indoors despite safety concerns. For the newlyweds, questions remain about how such horror could occur during what should have been a joyous celebration.
Iraq's prime minister has called for assistance for victims of the tragic incident. But for Revan and Haneen, the losses of so many loved ones have left scars too deep to remain in the town they once called home.
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