A fire caused by an electric scooter explosion in a house in the Luyanó neighborhood of the Diez de Octubre municipality in Havana has resulted in the deaths of four people, including a one-year-old baby, and has left a thirteen-year-old girl severely injured.
Initial reports from the morning of the tragic incident, which occurred last Wednesday, stated that only two people had died. However, the independent outlet 14 y Medio later updated and expanded the information.
According to neighbors who spoke to the media, the explosion happened in a house located at 203 Marqués de la Torre Street, where two electric scooters were present. One of the scooters was left charging overnight and exploded shortly after seven in the morning.
Despite neighbors' attempts to rescue the residents, the entrance door was locked with a gate and padlock, making it impossible to access. “They were trapped inside,” lamented one of the would-be rescuers.
The deceased were identified as a couple, Andrés Herrera and Yiliam Martínes, along with their two daughters, Vanesa and Verónica. Also present in the house was a cousin who stayed overnight because he couldn’t return to his own home. The three adults died at the scene.
The firefighters managed to rescue the children alive, but the youngest, Verónica, passed away shortly after. Her sister is currently in critical condition in the burn unit of Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Hospital.
Comments on a post by CiberCuba about the incident expressed sorrow and grief. “This tragic event happened just around the corner from my house. The whole neighborhood is in shock,” wrote one user.
“Such sad news early in the morning. Luyanó is in mourning,” added another.
The father of the children was known among the neighbors as a utility bill collector, reported 14 y Medio. “I can’t believe it, so sad. He adored his little girl. Rest in peace, Andrés, a good person. Rest in peace, my friend,” commented another user.
Key Details About the Luyanó Fire Tragedy
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the devastating fire in Luyanó, which claimed the lives of four people, including a one-year-old baby.
What caused the fire in Luyanó?
The fire was caused by an electric scooter explosion in a house where the scooter was left charging overnight.
How many people died in the Luyanó fire?
Four people died in the fire: a couple, their one-year-old daughter, and a cousin who was staying overnight.
Were there any survivors?
Yes, the firefighters rescued two children. However, the youngest child died shortly after, and the older sister is in critical condition.