A fire broke out at the Tedi store located in the heart of Cartagena on Saturday evening, disrupting the festive atmosphere of the city's holiday celebrations. The incident occurred just after 6:30 PM on December 28, 2024, on the corner of Subida San Antonio and Puertas de Murcia.
Emergency services received more than twenty calls alerting them to the fire, which was characterized by dense black smoke pouring from the establishment. Quick-thinking employees were able to evacuate customers before the flames could escalate, thanks to the alert raised by shoppers who noticed the smoke and flames inside the store.
Belén Romero, the Commercial Councilor of the Cartagena City Council, reported, "The employees alerted the customers and managed to evacuate everyone unharmed." Fortunately, there were no personal injuries during the fire, though some individuals on-site experienced minor respiratory issues due to smoke inhalation. Emergency medical responders attended to several people for these complaints.
Firefighters from Cartagena arrived swiftly at the scene, having to break windows to allow smoke to escape as they battled to control the flames. The store contained a large quantity of household and decorative products, many of which were plastic and highly flammable, creating hazardous conditions within the retail environment.
Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke rising from the store, alarming passersby who had gathered to enjoy the Christmas lights and festivities. The fire's timing was particularly unfortunate, as many families and children had gathered nearby to watch scheduled holiday performances.
Emergency crews cordoned off the area around the store to protect the public and facilitate the firefighting efforts. Shops and businesses nearby closed their doors as a precaution against exposure to smoke. The response involved not just firefighters, but also local police who helped maintain safety at the scene.
The fire affected the planned community activities, including the diversion of a children's parade featuring large festive props, as organizers had to alter their plans due to the proximity of the emergency. Local authorities expressed gratitude for the quick response of the store employees and emergency services, which prevented any injuries.
The origins of the fire remain under investigation; authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and examining the store's interior to determine what sparked the flames. The swift action of the store employees, who acted immediately to clear the premises before the fire spread significantly, was credited with averting potential disaster.
While no serious injuries occurred, the smell of burnt plastic lingered over the area, serving as a reminder of the chaotic scene just hours earlier. The city, known for its vibrant holiday atmosphere, was briefly shaken, but the spirit of the celebrations continued as residents and visitors gradually resumed their festivities after the situation was resolved.
This incident highlights the importance of preparedness and quick action during emergencies, especially during crowded festive periods when the risk of incidents can increase significantly. Local officials praised the teamwork displayed by all parties involved, emphasizing the need for vigilance and readiness to respond to unforeseen events.
