By Trend News Line 2024-05-26 01:49:47.
**Chilean Judge Orders Detention of Suspects in Valparaiso Forest Fire**
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In a shocking development, a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official have been detained in Chile for allegedly planning and causing a devastating forest fire in the Valparaiso region earlier this year. The fire, which occurred in February, resulted in the tragic deaths of 137 people and left 16,000 individuals homeless.
**Suspects Detained for 180 Days**
The court in Valparaiso has ruled that the two suspects, who were arrested on Friday, will be held for 180 days while the investigation takes place. The main suspect, identified as Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter, is accused of physically starting the fire. Flares and fireworks were reportedly found in Mondaca’s vehicle. The other suspect, Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation, is believed to have planned the crime.
**Evidence of Pre-Meditated Crime**
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According to the regional prosecutor for Valparaiso, Claudia Perivancich, investigators have evidence that the two suspects agreed in advance to carry out the crime when the weather conditions were suitable. Prosecutors suspect an economic motive behind the plot, as it would provide more work in fighting fires. They have not ruled out the possibility of additional individuals being involved.
**Reaction from Authorities**
The commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department, Vicente Maggiolo, expressed dismay over the situation but emphasized that it was an isolated incident that should not reflect on the department’s overall work. Christian Little, executive director of the forestry department, described the detention of a former official as “a pain” for the agency. Both departments have pledged to tighten their hiring procedures in light of the incident.
**Tragic Impact of the Megafire**
The megafire, which began in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve, destroyed over 10,000 homes in the central region of Chile. The incident is considered the country’s worst tragedy since a devastating earthquake in 2010 that claimed the lives of over 500 people. The effects of the forest fire have been far-reaching, with many families left without homes and livelihoods.
**Investigation Ongoing**
As the investigation into the forest fire continues, authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the suspects’ involvement and any potential accomplices. The community in Valparaiso is reeling from the aftermath of the fire, with many still coming to terms with the loss and destruction caused by the incident.
**Stay Tuned for Updates**
As more details emerge from the investigation, authorities will be providing updates on the case. The impact of the forest fire on the Valparaiso region has been significant, and the community is coming together to support those affected by the tragedy.
**Conclusion**
The detention of the two suspects has shed light on the devastating consequences of intentional acts of arson. The Valparaiso region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the forest fire, with many individuals and families still in need of support. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions..
Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing huge fire that killed .
