Omiš Fire Damages Dozens of Homes, Vehicles; One Dead

A significant fire that raged near Omiš, Croatia, has caused extensive damage, affecting 58 residential buildings, two garages, 36 vehicles, and 25 vessels. The full scale of the destruction is still being determined, as officials continue to assess and categorize the damage. Split-Dalmatia County Prefect Blaženko Boban stated that some affected structures may have sustained only minor damage but were included in the initial count.

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The data is not yet final, nor have the damages been categorized. Among the objects, there are certainly those that are only slightly affected, but they are also included in the list. Additional categorization will need to be done.

Boban expressed gratitude to the firefighters, police, Red Cross, emergency services (112), volunteers, and local business owners who assisted during the blaze. He noted that reception centers established in sports halls have been disbanded as residents have returned to their homes or alternative accommodations. Currently, 37 individuals remain housed in hotels in Tučepi, while others have returned home or continued their travels.

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Investigations will continue, Boban added, who does not expect them to increase significantly.

The fire is almost completely extinguished, and power restoration efforts are underway by Elektrodalmacija, with completion expected by the end of the day or the following day. The Red Cross continues to provide food and water to response teams and residents in Omiša who are unable to prepare meals themselves.

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I believe that the penalties for intentionally causing fires should be as strict as possible due to the endangerment of life and destruction of property.

Boban declared the incident a major disaster rather than a natural disaster, empowering relevant institutions to mobilize necessary resources. He refrained from speculating on the fire's cause, awaiting the results of police investigations, but emphasized the need for strict penalties for arson due to the endangerment of lives and property. Sadly, one person died in the fire, and about ten others suffered severe burns and were hospitalized.

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He expressed condolences to the family of the deceased person and wished a speedy recovery to all those injured who are being treated in Split and Zagreb.