– Volunteer firefighter accused of causing devastating fire
– Ex-forestry official blamed for deadly blaze.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
In a significant development, a Chilean judge in Valparaiso has ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official on suspicion of planning and causing a devastating forest fire in the Valparaiso region earlier this year. The fire, which occurred in February, resulted in 137 deaths and left 16,000 people homeless.
Suspects Detained for Further Investigation
The court in Valparaiso has ruled that the two suspects, who were arrested on Friday, will be detained for 180 days as the investigation continues. The chief prosecutor in the case, Osvaldo Ossandón, revealed that the main suspect, Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter, is believed to have physically started the fire. Flares and fireworks were reportedly found in Mondaca’s vehicle. The second suspect, Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation, is accused of planning the crime.
Evidence of Pre-Meditated Crime
Regional prosecutor Claudia Perivancich stated that there is evidence suggesting that the two suspects had pre-planned the crime and agreed to carry it out under favourable weather conditions. The motive behind the plot is believed to be economic, with the intention of creating more work in fighting fires. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional individuals being involved in the scheme.
Reactions from Officials
Vicente Maggiolo, the commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department, expressed dismay over the situation but emphasised that it was an isolated incident that should not overshadow the department’s longstanding dedication to saving lives. Christian Little, the executive director of the forestry department, described the detention of a former official as a setback for the agency and pledged to enhance hiring procedures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Impact of the Megafire
The devastating megafire, which began in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve in central Chile, destroyed over 10,000 homes and affected several communes. It is considered the worst tragedy in Chile since the 2010 earthquake that claimed over 500 lives. The incident has raised concerns about the need for stricter measures to prevent and combat forest fires in the region.
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volunteer firefighter ex-forestry official Chile huge fire killed.
