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Preventive Detention for Third Suspect in Valparaíso Mega-Fire

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• A Senapred official and volunteer firefighter is the third person arrested for the devastating February fire, facing preventive detention in Rancagua.

The Guarantee Court has ordered preventive detention for E.A.S.I., the third individual arrested in connection with the mega-fire that ravaged Greater Valparaíso in February. The measure was issued this Tuesday, following his arrest on Monday by the Investigative Police (PDI). E.A.S.I., who worked for Senapred and volunteered at the same fire company as the first detainee, will serve the detention at the Rancagua Penitentiary Compliance Center, as requested by both the Public Ministry and the defense.

The case has taken an unexpected turn with the arrest of an official from the disaster prevention agency, who also worked as a volunteer firefighter. The PDI apprehended E.A.S.I. on Monday afternoon, revealing that he may have started the fire out of a desire to participate in emergencies and be perceived as a hero. Following the arrest, Senapred announced his immediate removal from his duties as an on-duty operator.

The other two accused in the case remain in preventive detention at Santiago 1 Prison. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to fully clarify the motivations behind the acts that led to one of the largest fires in the region's recent history.

The Valparaíso mega-fire has been a heavy blow to the community, leaving destruction and unanswered questions in its wake. With the arrest of this third suspect, authorities hope to close the case and bring justice to the numerous victims affected by the tragedy.