Vanesa de la Caridad Fernández Martínez, a 14-year-old and the sole survivor of the tragic fire that claimed the lives of four family members in Luyanó, Havana last Wednesday, has passed away. She died early this Wednesday morning at the Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Hospital, where she had been hospitalized since the incident.
The news was shared by social media user Lili Rubio in a Facebook group, relaying information from a WhatsApp group. According to the shared details, the young girl had been valiantly fighting for her life with "third-degree burns on her body" and was "swollen due to toxic gases."
On Wednesday afternoon, Vanesa suffered a cardiac arrest but managed to recover briefly, only to pass away around midnight. Her wake was held at the Santa Catalina funeral home in the Diez de Octubre municipality, where the deceased family resided.
"Such sad news. I am speechless and devastated by this event. I am grateful to everyone who made donations. God will repay you," wrote Lili Rubio, who also expressed special thanks to those who helped transport the deceased's relatives and the young girl in a show of solidarity.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The catastrophic fire occurred a week ago, on August 15. According to neighbors who spoke to the independent news portal 14ymedio, the explosion happened at house number 203 on Marqués de la Torre street. Two electric scooters were inside the house, one of which was left charging overnight and exploded shortly after 7 a.m.
Despite neighbors' attempts to rescue the occupants, the entrance door was locked with a grille and padlock, making it impossible to access. Initially, the fire claimed the lives of a married couple, Andrés Herrera and Yiliam Martínez, and a cousin who was visiting.
Firefighters managed to rescue two minors alive: one-year-old Verónica and 14-year-old Vanesa. The infant died shortly after the incident, and Vanesa fought for her life until this Tuesday. Recently, a social media campaign sought help to obtain medications for the young girl. Unfortunately, her death was confirmed this Wednesday.
FAQs About the Havana Fire Tragedy
In light of the devastating fire in Havana, many have questions about the incident and its aftermath. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What caused the fire in Luyanó, Havana?
The fire was caused by the explosion of an electric scooter that was left charging overnight.
Who were the victims of the fire?
The victims included Andrés Herrera, Yiliam Martínez, a cousin of the family who was visiting, and eventually, their two daughters, Verónica and Vanesa.
Where were the survivors taken for treatment?
The survivors were taken to the Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Hospital for treatment.
How did the community respond to the tragedy?
The community responded with donations and support for the affected family, and special thanks were given to those who helped transport relatives and the deceased.