Fire at nursing home in Chile kills 16 residents

A devastating fire at a nursing home in Chile claimed the lives of at least 16 elderly residents, according to authorities. Ten others were evacuated from the facility after a blaze erupted at El Edén home in Pitrufquén, located approximately 400 miles south of Santiago on Friday evening. The exact cause of the incident remains unknown at this stage, with Jorge Granada, a prosecutor leading the case, stating that a thorough review of nursing home conditions across the country is underway.

President José Antonio Kast emphasized that his government will collaborate fully with the justice system to investigate the cause of the tragedy, identify any potential failures in oversight or prevention, and determine what actions were taken in response. Kast expressed the need to uncover the truth and take corrective measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The fire, which began around 10:30 PM, was extinguished on Saturday morning. Firefighters continued to clear debris and remove collapsed corrugated metal roofing on Saturday, while the area was cordoned off by police for safety. Local Mayor Jacqueline Romero expressed profound sorrow and sorrow for the families affected by the incident, stating that support is being provided to those impacted.