Amid the tragedy of the fire at London’s Grenfell Tower comes news of neighbors heroically rescuing neighbors. Among those alerting residents to the danger and helping them to safety were Muslims, awake in the early morning hours in observance of Ramadan.

“Muslims played a big part in getting a lot of people out,” Andre Barroso told Britain’s The Independent about the blaze that killed at least 12 people and injured about 75. “Most of the people I could see were Muslim. They have also been providing food and clothes.” 

Places of worship have been busy: Nearby St. Clement’s has offered shelter, while Sikh gurdwaras also were collecting food, clothing, and other necessities to help victims, many of whom escaped in just their pajamas. On Wednesday, donations poured in to nonprofits, fire stations, and a crowdfunding site.

Residents have repeatedly warned about safety concerns in the 24-story high-rise. A just completed £10 million ($12.8 million) renovation included a central heating system and cladding to make the building’s exterior more attractive – but not the sprinklers that are mandatory in new high-rises. Authorities will investigate both the fire's cause, as well as the adequacy of safety measures.

On Wednesday, residents described Grenfell to reporters as a place where all nationalities and faiths were welcome. This morning, that sense of community may have saved lives.