Fire Threatens Building Collapse in Lima, Peru; Elderly Man Rescued by Police Helicopter

A massive fire broke out in a warehouse on Jirón Áncash in the Cercado de Lima district of Lima, Peru on April 25, 2024, risking the collapse of a nearby building structure. The blaze initially started on the afternoon of April 23 but reignited around 7:30 p.m. on April 24, challenging the efforts of firefighters to extinguish it.

As the fire raged, an elderly man identified as 64-year-old Juan Altunes Cárdenas found himself trapped on a rooftop near the epicenter of the inferno. In a daring rescue operation, non-commissioned officer Verónica Gargate from the Police Aviation Directorate (Diravpol) came down from a helicopter to save Altunes. Despite being "a little nervous," Altunes was successfully evacuated and transported to the Hipólito Unanue Hospital for treatment of possible smoke inhalation.

At least 15 firefighting units responded to contain the blaze, which was finally brought under control by 4:30 p.m. on April 25. The cause of the fire remains unclear, and while there are no confirmed reports of casualties, several people were rescued from the scene. Significant transport and business disruptions occurred in the area due to the emergency response and the risk of additional structures catching fire.

Why this matters: The heroic actions of officer Gargate and the coordinated efforts of emergency responders highlight the importance of swift and effective crisis management in urban areas. This incident also underscores the ongoing need for fire safety measures and building regulations to prevent and mitigate the impact of such disasters.

President Dina Boluarte praised Gargate's "courage and bravery" in risking her own life to rescue Altunes, marking the first urban rescue carried out with a helicopter in the capital, according to Police Aviation director General Fredy López. As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage, the successful containment of the blaze and the rescue of those affected demonstrate the commitment and expertise of Lima's emergency services.

Key Takeaways

• Massive warehouse fire in Lima, Peru on April 25, 2024 risked nearby building collapse.
• Elderly man trapped on rooftop rescued by police officer in daring helicopter operation.
• 15 firefighting units responded, fire brought under control after 24 hours.
• Cause of fire unclear, no confirmed casualties but several people rescued.
• Incident highlights need for improved fire safety and crisis management in urban areas.