A horrific fire at a state-run shelter in Guatemala has left 38 girls dead, with authorities launching an investigation into potential negligence. The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Wednesday, has raised serious questions about the conditions at the facility.
Witnesses reported hearing screams as flames engulfed the building, with some victims trapped inside due to allegedly locked doors. Emergency services arrived quickly but were unable to prevent the tragic loss of life.
Questions Over Shelter Conditions
The Virgen de la Asunción shelter, located just outside Guatemala City, has faced previous allegations of overcrowding and poor treatment of residents. Many of the victims were reportedly being housed there after being removed from abusive home situations.
"This is not just a tragedy - it's a crime," said one local activist. "These children were supposed to be protected by the state, not left vulnerable to such dangers."
Government Response
President Jimmy Morales has declared three days of national mourning and promised a thorough investigation. "We will get to the bottom of what happened here," he stated at a press conference.
The shelter's director and several staff members have been detained for questioning as prosecutors examine whether proper safety protocols were followed. Preliminary reports suggest fire extinguishers were not functioning and emergency exits were blocked.
National Outrage
The incident has sparked protests across Guatemala, with citizens demanding accountability for what many see as systemic failures in the country's child protection system. Memorials with flowers and candles have sprung up near the charred remains of the facility.
International children's rights organizations have called for immediate reforms to prevent similar tragedies. UNICEF released a statement expressing "profound sorrow" and offering technical assistance to Guatemalan authorities.
As forensic teams continue their work at the site, the nation mourns the young lives lost in what has become one of Guatemala's worst civilian disasters in recent years.
