Tragedy Strikes Spanish Retirement Home As Fire Kills 10 People

A devastating fire broke out overnight in a retirement home in Villafranca de Ebro, northeastern Spain, leaving at least 10 people dead, emergency services confirmed on Friday.

Authorities have not yet disclosed further details, but Spanish media reported that the blaze occurred around 5:00 am (0400 GMT) and engulfed a facility housing 82 residents. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Mayor Volga Ramirez Gamiz revealed that the fire was confined to a single room, thanks to a security door that prevented it from spreading further.

However, she noted that smoke traveled throughout the building, causing widespread harm.

Fernando Beltran, the central government’s representative in the Aragon region, stated that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the deaths, which are believed to be primarily due to smoke inhalation.

Jorge Azcon, the head of the Aragon government, expressed his shock at the tragedy and announced the suspension of public engagements as a mark of mourning.

The Jardines de Villafranca facility, originally opened in 2008 as a retirement home, had recently shifted focus to caring for elderly residents with mental health challenges.

Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, shared his condolences on X, describing the incident as a tragedy. “I hope that the people in serious condition recover as soon as possible,” he wrote.