Tragedy struck Alcorcón, a municipality in the southern part of Madrid, on April 2, 2025, when a garage fire led to the deaths of two local firefighters and left another critically injured. The incident, which occurred around 3:30 PM, unfolded in a parking facility on Calle Lilos, where an electric vehicle's malfunction during parking ignited a catastrophic chain reaction.
According to eyewitness accounts, the fire began when a resident, identified only as Javier, attempted to park his electric Porsche Taycan. Reports suggest that he may have confused the accelerator with the brake, crashing into the garage entrance and causing the vehicle to emit thick smoke and flames. "We heard a loud bang, and then everything filled with smoke," said one neighbor, recalling the harrowing moments that followed the explosion.
As flames engulfed the Porsche, Erick Estrada and Wilfredo Guzmán, two construction workers nearby, rushed to help Javier and his wife escape the vehicle just moments before it exploded. "We were working near the pool when we heard a huge noise. We ran to the garage and saw them screaming for help," Estrada recounted. Thankfully, they managed to pull the couple to safety.
However, the situation took a dire turn when firefighters from the Alcorcón municipal fire department arrived on the scene. Among them were Sergio B. and Jesús A., who were swiftly engaged in battling the blaze. Tragically, both firefighters succumbed to the fire's deadly conditions. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with thick smoke making visibility nearly impossible. "I started hearing sirens and saw a huge cloud of smoke. It was a trap," stated local resident Adrián Rebollo.
Emergency services, including multiple units from the Comunidad de Madrid, quickly mobilized to the scene as the fire spread to at least three other vehicles, including a Mercedes. A total of 14 firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation, with one remaining in critical condition and transferred to the burn unit at Getafe Hospital.
As the situation unfolded, the community braced itself for the worst. The building at Lilos, 6, housing approximately 150 residents, was evacuated as a precaution. However, many residents remained confined to their homes due to the intense smoke and heat.
In the aftermath, the political community expressed their condolences. Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the President of the Community of Madrid, shared her sorrow on social media, stating, "We deeply regret the deaths of two firefighters from Alcorcón during their intervention in the garage fire. All our love to their friends and family. May they rest in peace." Similarly, Madrid's Mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, offered his sympathies, acknowledging the bravery of the firefighters.
As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on the cause of the fire, particularly the electric vehicle's malfunction. The National Police, including the Scientific Brigade and the Homicide Group from Madrid, are involved in the inquiry, examining whether the vehicle's battery or motor may have contributed to the explosion.
Local residents expressed their shock and grief at the loss of the firefighters, who were regarded as heroes in their community. "We are devastated. They were brave men who gave their lives to protect others," said a neighbor, reflecting the collective mourning felt throughout Alcorcón.
The tragic incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by firefighters in emergency situations, especially when dealing with modern electric vehicles, which can pose unique risks due to their complex battery systems. The ongoing investigation aims to shed light on the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking loss.
As the community comes to terms with the tragedy, support services have been made available for both the families of the deceased firefighters and their colleagues who witnessed the horrific events. The psychological toll of such incidents can be profound, prompting local authorities to ensure that adequate mental health resources are provided.
In a statement, the Alcorcón fire department expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. They reiterated their commitment to honor the memory of Sergio and Jesús by continuing their crucial work in protecting lives.
The loss of two dedicated firefighters serves as a stark reminder of the risks emergency responders face daily. As investigations continue and the community mourns, it is clear that the legacy of these brave individuals will not be forgotten.
