A major fire broke out at Maximus Confecções, a leading costume factory for the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, early on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. The blaze started around 7:39 AM at the factory located on Rua Roberto Silveira, Ramos, quickly engulfing the building and trapping many of the approximately 100 employees inside. The operations at Maximus, which is pivotal to the Carnival festivities, are reported to have suffered catastrophic losses due to the flames, raising concerns over the upcoming celebrations.
Initial reports suggest the fire spread rapidly owing to highly flammable materials, including fabric and foam used extensively for costume production. Workers described the horrifying scene as chaos erupted. "We just heard screams, windows breaking, and calls for help from the upper floors," recounted Raiane, one of the survivors who managed to escape through alternative exits. Over 90 firefighters, accompanied by 30 vehicles and airborne units, arrived on the scene to battle the flames and conduct rescue operations.
Sadly, the damage was extensive. Emergency responders rescued 21 individuals, some of whom were hospitalized for severe injuries, and more than 10 were listed as gravely hurt. Victims were treated for smoke inhalation and burn injuries at nearby hospitals, remarkably some needing urgent medical attention. Among the injured, nine were transported to the regional Hospital Getúlio Vargas and others to Hospital Federal de Bonsucesso.
The factory had been operating around the clock, producing costumes for various samba schools participating in the Carnival slated for early 2025. It predominantly supplied costumes for Império Serrano, Unidos da Ponte, and Unidos de Bangu, along with merchandise for local security forces. The scale of loss has shocked the Carnival community, as all Carnival costumes for the coming year were stored within Maximus, along with other supplies.
Following the tragedy, Eduardo Paes, the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro, spoke about his conversations with Hugo Júnior, the president of Liga RJ. "I have discussed the situation with Hugo and assured him of our support for the schools affected by this incident. The schools will not be penalized for this unfortunate event," he said, reflecting the city’s commitment to help those impacted. According to Liga RJ, the repercussions of this incident directly affect planning for the Carnival-related operations, emphasizing their importance within the community’s cultural calendar.
Among the responses from the community and samba schools, many expressed worry over the incident’s toll on local traditions. Quitéria Chagas, the samba queen of Império Serrano, remarked on social media, "My God, I feel heartbroken witnessing the devastation of our culture and history. Thankful for all who were rescued, yet mourning for our lost artistry." Her sentiments echoed the collective grief felt throughout the community as everyone prepares for what should be one of the most celebrated times of year.
The Liga RJ announced its urgent plan to convene an extraordinary assembly to develop strategies to minimize the impact on the samba schools and seek support from the local community and businesses to aid recovery efforts.
While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, authorities will extensively examine the site and the factory's safety protocols. Community members have come together, expressing solidarity with those affected, and taking steps to assist both the injured and the displaced during this trying time.
Despite the overwhelming sense of loss, many locals remain hopeful for the resiliency of their culture. The spirit of the Carnival is embedded deeply within their identity, and the community vows to rebuild, ensuring the traditions continue to thrive. Keeping the festivities alive remains at heart of their concerns, even as they navigate this sorrowful chapter.