At least 10 people were killed in a fire that broke out at a defunct hotel being used as a makeshift homeless shelter in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The fire occurred in the early morning hours, with emergency workers confirming the victims at the Garoa Floresta. The shelter was operating without proper authorization, according to the fire department for Rio Grande do Sul state. It took firefighters around three hours to bring the fire under control, and forensic experts are working to determine the cause of the blaze and identify the victims.
Porto Alegre Mayor Sebastiao Melo confirmed that multiple injured people were rescued and taken to the hospital, though the exact number of injuries was not specified. Images from the scene showed the building engulfed in flames as firefighters worked to extinguish the fire. Witnesses described the panic and quick spread of the fire, with one resident recounting how they only had time to grab their flip-flops and run, while another mentioned hearing people yell “fire” before quickly evacuating the building.
State Governor Eduardo Leite pledged to investigate the incident, with the fire department promptly dispatching resources to combat the flames. Concerns were raised about the safety of the homeless shelter, with state lawmaker Matheus Gomes criticizing the city government for funding the shelter despite reports of noncompliance with regulations for years. He called for a thorough investigation into the causes of the fire and the circumstances that led to the tragedy. The building is part of the Garoa group, which owns several small hotels in Porto Alegre, one of which experienced a fatal fire in 2022.
The tragic incident has sparked calls for accountability and improved safety measures for homeless shelters and similar facilities in Porto Alegre. The community is mourning the loss of the victims and supporting those injured in the fire. Forensic experts continue their work to identify the deceased and shed light on the cause of the blaze. The fire has highlighted the importance of ensuring that such shelters adhere to safety regulations and receive proper oversight to prevent future tragedies. State officials are committed to investigating the fire and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring again in the future.
In the wake of the fire, efforts are underway to support the families of the victims and provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy. The Governor and other officials have expressed their condolences to the loved ones of those who perished in the fire. The community is coming together to grieve and demand justice for the victims, with a focus on holding accountable those responsible for the unsafe conditions at the shelter. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, there is a renewed emphasis on the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, especially the most vulnerable populations, in facilities across the city.
