By Trend News Line 2024-05-26 01:48:52.
Mammoth Forest Fire in Valparaiso Region
A Chilean judge has ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official for allegedly planning and causing a devastating forest fire in the Valparaiso region. The fire, which occurred in February, resulted in 137 deaths and left 16,000 people homeless.
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Suspects Detained for 180 Days
The two suspects, who were arrested on Friday, will be held for 180 days while investigations are ongoing. The main suspect, 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.
Agreement to Carry Out the Crime
According to regional prosecutor Claudia Perivancich, investigators have evidence that the two men agreed in advance to carry out the crime when weather conditions were suitable. There are suspicions of an economic motive behind the plot, as Mondaca testified that it was intended to provide more work in fighting fires. Prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of more individuals being involved.
Reactions 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 tarnish the department’s reputation. Christian Little, executive director of the forestry department, described the detention of the former official as a painful development for the agency. Both departments have pledged to tighten hiring procedures in light of the incident.
Extent of the Megafire
The megafire began on February 2 in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve in the central region of Chile. It spread rapidly, burning several communes and destroying over 10,000 homes. The incident is considered Chile’s worst tragedy since a devastating earthquake in 2010 that claimed the lives of more than 500 people.
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Conclusion
The investigation into the forest fire in the Valparaiso region continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the crime. The detention of the volunteer firefighter and former forestry official has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the importance of preventing such incidents in the future. As the legal proceedings unfold, the residents of Valparaiso and the surrounding areas hope for justice to be served for the victims of this tragic event..
Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing massive fire that resulted in fatalities.
