Chilean authorities arrest a firefighter in connection with a devastating blaze that claimed 137 lives. Read more about the investigation
Chilean Authorities Arrest Two Men
Suspected of Starting Deadly Valparaíso Fire
Chilean authorities have arrested a
firefighter and a forestry worker on suspicion of starting the devastating fire
that killed at least 137 people in February. The arrests mark a significant
development in the investigation of the country's deadliest fire, which ravaged
the Valparaíso region, situated over 122 km (75 miles) from the capital,
Santiago.
One of the suspects was employed by the
National Forestry Corporation, which is responsible for combating forest fires,
police director Eduardo Cerna confirmed. Both men have been charged with arson
resulting in death and have been remanded in custody.
The fire, which broke out in February,
was a catastrophic event for the Valparaíso region, particularly affecting Vina
del Mar, a popular holiday destination. Drone footage released at the time
captured the extensive damage and devastation caused by the blaze.
Officials allege that several fires were
started simultaneously. The combination of high temperatures and strong winds
exacerbated the situation, causing the flames to spread rapidly. Over 16,000
people were affected, with many losing their homes and livelihoods.
Vicente Maggiolo, commander of the 13th
Fire Company in Valparaíso, expressed his dismay at the involvement of a
firefighter in the incident. "We are completely devastated by what
happened. It is a totally isolated incident. We have served Valparaíso for more
than 170 years and cannot allow such things," Maggiolo told local media.
Prosecutor Osvaldo Ossandón provided
further details on the investigation, noting that there were approximately four
separate fire outbreaks, equidistant from each other. Materials believed to
have been used to start the fires were discovered in the home of one of the
suspects. Investigators are also exploring potential links to other arson
attacks in the region.
The arrests bring a new focus on the
causes behind the tragic fire, as authorities continue to scrutinize the
circumstances and motivations behind the arson. The Valparaíso fire remains a
somber chapter in Chile's recent history, with the ongoing investigation aiming
to bring justice to those affected by the disaster.
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