Ten Dead in Spanish Care Home Fire
At least ten people have died following a fire at a care home in Villafranca de Ebro, near Zaragoza in north-eastern Spain. The blaze, which broke out early Friday morning, has left two others hospitalized, including one in critical condition, emergency services confirmed.
The Tragic Incident
The care home, which specializes in residents with dementia and mental health conditions, was housing 82 people at the time of the fire. Emergency services were alerted at around 05:00 (04:00 GMT), and firefighters swiftly extinguished the flames. However, smoke inhalation is believed to be the primary cause of the fatalities, as the single-storey building suffered minimal fire damage.
Local mayor Volga Ramírez told Cadena Ser that the fire may have started from a mattress igniting in one of the rooms. She described harrowing scenes, with her husband entering the building to help residents escape despite the overwhelming smoke.
National Condolences and Investigation
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his shock and offered condolences to the victims’ families. Fernando Beltrán, the Spanish government’s delegate in Aragón, pledged support for those affected and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.
A Troubling History
This tragedy echoes a similar incident nine years ago when a fire at another care home in the Zaragoza area claimed nine lives. It raises concerns about safety protocols in facilities housing vulnerable populations.
Moving Forward
As authorities investigate the cause of the fire, the focus remains on the well-being of survivors and preventing future tragedies. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the critical importance of stringent safety measures in care facilities.
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