137 people : Chile Accuses Volunteer Firefighter and Ex-Official of Causing Deadly Fire

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Chile wildfire culprit
2. Volunteer firefighter arson Chile

A Chilean judge has ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official for allegedly causing a devastating forest fire in Valparaiso that resulted in 137 deaths and left 16,000 people homeless. The suspects, Francisco Mondaca and Franco Pinto, are accused of planning and starting the fire for economic gain. The investigation revealed evidence of premeditated wrongdoing, with flares and fireworks found in Mondaca’s vehicle. The fire department and forestry agency have pledged to tighten hiring procedures following the incident. The megafire, Chile’s worst tragedy since a major earthquake in 2010, began in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve and destroyed thousands of homes.

Chilean Judge Detains Suspects in Mammoth Forest Fire

A Chilean judge has ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official for their alleged involvement in a devastating forest fire in the Valparaiso region. The fire, which occurred in February, resulted in 137 deaths and left 16,000 people homeless.

Suspects identified and Detained

The two suspects, who were arrested on Friday, have been identified as Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter, and Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation. Mondaca is accused of physically starting the fire, while Pinto is alleged to have planned the crime. They are now under investigation and will be held for 180 days.

Evidence of Pre-Meditated Crime

According to the regional prosecutor for Valparaiso, investigators have evidence that Mondaca and Pinto agreed in advance to start the fire under suitable weather conditions. It is believed that there was an economic motive behind the plot, with the aim of generating more work in fighting fires. The possibility of additional individuals being involved has not been ruled out.

Reactions from Authorities

The commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department expressed dismay over the situation but stressed that it was an isolated incident that should not reflect negatively on the department’s work. The forestry department also expressed regret over the detention of a former official and vowed to enhance hiring procedures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Devastation of the Megafire

The fire, which started in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve, spread to several communes and destroyed over 10,000 homes. It is considered Chile’s worst tragedy since a devastating earthquake in 2010 that claimed over 500 lives. The incident has deeply affected the local community and highlighted the importance of fire prevention and safety measures.

In Conclusion

The detention of the suspects in connection with the Valparaiso forest fire underscores the serious consequences of irresponsible actions that endanger lives and property. Authorities are working diligently to investigate the incident and ensure that justice is served. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of forest fire prevention and the need for vigilance in protecting our natural resources.