Spain Wildfire Death Toll Rises as Residents Flee

Residents of villages near Los Gallardos in southern Spain faced the decision of whether to stay in their homes or try to flee as a massive wildfire raged. For many, the attempt to flee ended tragically. So far, 12 deaths have been confirmed, and another 23 people are missing.

Authorities recommended that some residents evacuate along a designated route. In the forest settlement of Bédar, however, they later advised that it was safer to stay put, as the fire was already too close.

"In situations like this, it is essential that we all follow the routes indicated. Looking for another way out via a dry riverbed turned out to be a trap", said Antonio Sanz, head of crisis management in Andalusia.

Four people, who authorities believe were traveling in a British car, died inside the vehicle. Another seven victims were found after they apparently left their cars and tried to escape on foot.

Bédar Mayor Ángel Collado noted that many of the victims were foreign residents. "They are British, Belgian residents. I have even officiated some of their weddings. I feel sadness and profound pain", he said.

Juanma Moreno, president of the Andalusian regional government, noted that the instinct to flee from a fire is natural, but without the right information, escape routes can become deadly traps.

(Reuters, bak)