By Trend News Line 2024-05-26 03:42:09.
Chilean Judge Orders Detention of Suspects in Deadly Forest Fire
In a shocking development, a Chilean judge has ordered the detention of two suspects in connection with a devastating forest fire in the Valparaiso region that claimed the lives of 137 people and left 16,000 homeless in February. The suspects, a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official, were arrested on Friday and are now facing a lengthy investigation period of 180 days.
Suspects Accused of Planning and Causing the Tragic Fire
The main suspect in the case is Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter from Valparaiso. He stands accused of physically starting the fire, with authorities finding flares and fireworks in his vehicle. The other suspect, Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation, is believed to have planned the crime. According to regional prosecutor Claudia Perivancich, there is evidence that the two men conspired to carry out the act when weather conditions were favorable.
Possible Economic Motive Behind the Tragic Incident
Investigators revealed that there may have been an economic motive behind the plot, with Mondaca allegedly stating that the fire would create more work in fighting fires. Prosecutors have not ruled out the involvement of additional individuals in the crime. The commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department expressed dismay over the situation, emphasizing that it was an isolated incident that should not reflect negatively on the department’s work.
Agency Response and Tightening of Procedures
Christian Little, executive director of the forestry department, described the detention of a former official as a painful moment for the agency. Both the fire department and forestry agency have pledged to enhance their hiring procedures in light of the incident. The megafire, which began in the Lago Penuelas nature reserve, is considered Chile’s worst tragedy since the 2010 earthquake that claimed over 500 lives.
Tragic Loss and Ongoing Investigation
The devastating forest fire in Valparaiso has left a lasting impact on the community, with 137 lives lost and thousands displaced. The investigation into the incident continues, as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the suspects’ involvement. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and the devastating consequences of irresponsible actions..
Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing huge fire that killed..