Helicopter aids firefighters battling major blaze at Santo Domingo store

Firefighters continue to battle a significant blaze that has engulfed a large portion of the L&R Comercial store in Santo Domingo Este. Supported by a rescue helicopter from the Dominican Air Force, units from the Santo Domingo Este Fire Department are working to extinguish the fire, which has heavily impacted the store's warehouse and top floor.

The fire broke out around 1 p.m. on Saturday, creating dense smoke that still lingers at the scene. The rescue helicopter is employing a unique tactic, collecting water from the Caribbean Sea using a cargo bag and making targeted drops on the upper levels of the establishment where flames persist. The operation requires careful navigation around offshore reefs.

As of Saturday, authorities have not determined the cause of the fire, and no injuries or fatalities have been reported. Approximately 15 fire units, led by Fire Chief General Roberto Santos Méndez, are on site. The mayor, Dio Astacio, and the deputy director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), Colonel Edwin Olivares, are also providing support.

Authorities have established a safety perimeter due to the risk of partial structural collapse and are urging the public to stay clear of the area. In a related development, 17 people were arrested for allegedly looting merchandise, including refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves, from the store while the fire was still active. These individuals will be handed over to the Public Ministry.