Massive fire destroys over 100 vehicles at Peruvian police impound lot

A massive fire engulfed a police vehicle impound lot in Huancayo, Peru, on Thursday, consuming more than 100 vehicles. The blaze broke out at the Alipio Ponce Vásquez police complex in El Tambo district, spreading rapidly through a storage area filled with seized and impounded cars. Many of these vehicles had been held for years awaiting final disposition.

Firefighters from Huancayo and El Tambo, along with police and local officials, responded to the emergency. Commander Kid Zaforas of the Fire Department reported that approximately a hundred vehicles were completely destroyed, though some were moved before the flames reached them. The fire's intensity was exacerbated by the presence of fuel in the car tanks and seized acetone gallons, which firefighters removed to mitigate the risk.

Controlling the fire proved challenging, particularly in the initial hour due to a nearly one-hour delay in water tanker arrivals. Once water supply was established, firefighters intensified their efforts to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading. Police officers also assisted in moving vehicles that had not yet been affected.

The origin of the fire remains under investigation. Preliminary theories suggest it may have spread from a nearby forest fire, fueled by the region's high solar radiation. While the fire caused significant material damage, no fatalities or serious injuries were reported, though some firefighters experienced smoke inhalation and heat exposure. The incident has prompted owners of impounded vehicles to inquire about their property's status.

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approximately a hundred vehicles were completely burned, although some units could be removed before the fire reached them.