Authorities in Chile have arrested a suspect accused of starting the massive Biobío forest fire that has killed at least 21 people and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes.
President Gabriel Boric declared a state of catastrophe in the Biobío and neighboring Ñuble regions this week, enabling the armed forces to assist with evacuations and disaster relief. More than 50,000 residents were evacuated as fires tore through roughly 21,000 acres of dry forestland.
Firefighters reported battling at least 34 separate blazes, with the most intense fires burning near the coastal city and regional capital of Concepción. Flames pushed into residential areas, destroying hundreds of homes. Nearly 8,500 firefighters were deployed to combat the fast-moving infernos.
Officials blamed the severity of the fires on high winds, unusually high temperatures, and a prolonged drought. However, authorities also pointed to widespread human interference that worsened the crisis.
Several attacks on firefighters were reported, including at least one involving gunfire. Civilian drones were also flown over fire zones, interfering with aircraft and ground operations while recording footage of the disaster.
Even more alarming, arsonists allegedly added to the destruction by deliberately setting new fires. President Boric and other officials warned that anyone attacking firefighters, flying drones near fire zones, or starting additional blazes would face harsh legal consequences.
As of Friday, Chilean authorities said 110 people had been arrested for interfering with firefighting efforts, in addition to the suspected arsonist believed to have started the original Biobío fire.
Prosecutors identified the suspect as a 39-year-old man with prior police records for serious injuries and violations of industrial and intellectual property laws. He was taken into custody Thursday night.
According to prosecutors, the man allegedly ignited the fire by using a poorly maintained wood-burning stove. Sparks from the stove are believed to have triggered multiple fires in the forest, which quickly spread into a massive wildfire.
On Friday, a court approved an extension of the suspect’s pretrial detention until January 26. Authorities have not yet announced the full list of charges, but they are expected to include multiple counts of arson resulting in death.
