A devastating wildfire in southern Spain has killed at least 12 people, including four believed to be British nationals, after their bodies were found in charred vehicles. The regional government of Andalusia confirmed the death toll on Friday, with 19 people still unaccounted for.
Victims Found in Burnt-Out Cars
The remains were discovered near the village of Bédar in Almería province. One car, with its steering wheel on the right side, contained four individuals thought to be of British origin, according to Antonio Sanz, Andalusia's health and emergencies minister. Authorities suspect the other seven victims were also foreign holidaymakers who abandoned their vehicles and attempted to flee on foot through rough terrain.
"The decision to take another route instead of the designated evacuation route became a fatal trap," Sanz said. He explained that the victims sought "their own way out" through a dry riverbed rather than following the path coordinated by emergency services.
Blaze and Response
The wildfire, which witnesses allege was ignited by a fallen power line, has prompted the evacuation of approximately 1,000 residents. Around 150 firefighters are battling the flames, and roads in the vicinity have been closed. Six other individuals have suffered injuries.
"The number of people who died in the fire in Los Gallardos has risen to 12 after the confirmation of six more deaths," the regional government of Andalusia said in a statement. The head of the regional government, Juanma Moreno, described the fatalities as "a tragedy," posting on X: "Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief."
Heatwave Fuels Southern Europe Fires
This disaster comes as Europe grapples with a blistering 40°C (104°F) heatwave that has sparked wildfires across southern Europe, including in France and Portugal, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his condolences on X, stating: "Immense sadness and pain seeing the terrible impact of the fires in the province of Almería. I want to convey my condolences to the families of those who died in the Los Gallardos forest fire." He added that emergency services and the Military Emergency Unit (UME) have been mobilized.
A representative for the Andalusia emergency services confirmed: "In one car where four people died, it appears they are British with the car having a steering wheel on the other side." The casualty figure remains preliminary as rescue teams continue to scour the fire zone.
