Firefighters rescue victims from rubble as residents evacuated; building declared unstable in Puente de Vallecas district
Madrid [Spain], September 14 — Panic swept through the Puente de Vallecas district of Madrid on Saturday afternoon when a powerful explosion tore through the Mis Tesoros bar, leaving at least 25 people injured. The blast, which occurred around 3 p.m., sent shockwaves across the neighborhood as residents rushed to the streets in fear.
Emergency services reported that two victims remain in critical condition, while three others are in potentially serious condition. In a dramatic rescue effort, firefighters pulled four people from the rubble, working against time as smoke and debris filled the air.
Cause Under Investigation, Gas Leak Suspected
Authorities suspect the explosion may have been triggered by a gas leak, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
“The explosion was linked to gas, but the type and exact cause are still unclear,” said Carlos Marín, head of the Madrid City Council Fire Department.
Deputy Mayor Inmaculada Sanz urged caution, stating it was “too early” to confirm the cause, but reassured reporters that no additional victims were trapped inside the building.
Residents Left Homeless as Building Declared Unsafe
The impact of the blast left the building dangerously unstable. While some upper apartments escaped serious damage, the entrance and lower structure were severely compromised, making access impossible.
At least nine housing units in the building have been evacuated, with residents forced to seek temporary shelter until further notice. Authorities are closely monitoring the structure’s stability before allowing anyone to return.
A District in Shock
Local media described scenes of fear and chaos as emergency vehicles rushed to the site. Neighbors reported hearing a “deafening blast” that shook surrounding streets. The community now faces days of uncertainty as investigators work to determine the exact cause behind the tragedy.