Tragedy in Penco: Forest Fires Leave 14 Fatal Victims

In a somber update provided this Sunday, the mayor of Penco, Rodrigo Vera, announced the loss of 14 lives as a consequence of the forest fires that have struck the commune. The tragedy, which has shocked the local and national community, was confirmed by the Investigative Police (PDI), according to the mayor himself. The flames have not only claimed lives but have also left a landscape of destruction in tourist and residential areas, with vehicles and structures reduced to ashes.

"Subprefect Claudia Chamorro, of the PDI, has just confirmed to me that at 11 a.m., the deaths of 14 compatriots, 14 Chileans, are confirmed, to whom I pay tribute," expressed Vera, visibly affected. The mayor also made an urgent call to the national government to appoint a delegate with decision-making power and operational capacity to coordinate efforts among ministries, private entities, and companies that can provide aid in this emergency.

The situation in Penco is critical, with firefighters and emergency teams overwhelmed by the magnitude of the disaster. Thirty-five fire engines have been deployed, and additional reinforcements have been requested to combat the flames. The current priority is the safety of residents, with carabineros and military personnel patrolling the streets and supporting firefighting efforts.

The Minister of Security, Luis Cordero, indicated that the response to the catastrophe not only involves police intervention but also the isolation of the affected areas and collaboration with the Public Ministry. Furthermore, a total of 15 fatalities have been confirmed in the Biobío region, including a victim previously reported.

Authorities have issued over eighty evacuation alerts, emphasizing the importance of residents heeding these warnings for their safety. The police continue to work in the affected areas, and for reasons of prudence, the exact location of the incidents has not been disclosed.

This incident underscores the vulnerability of communities to forest fires and the need for a coordinated and effective response to prevent future tragedies.