Algiers, Algeria – The Algerian police announced that preliminary investigations into the devastating fire that tore through an orphanage in the Mohammedia suburb of the capital revealed an electrical short circuit from an air conditioning unit as the cause. The tragic incident resulted in 11 fatalities and left 19 others injured, as authorities continue their probe into the full circumstances.
Investigation Identifies Fire Cause
Forensics and technical experts concluded that the fire was ignited by a spark from an AC unit operating continuously due to the intense heatwave gripping the nation. The fire broke out at dawn on Thursday inside the childcare facility. Among those confirmed dead is a 52-year-old caregiver, while the exact number of children who lost their lives has not yet been officially detailed as identification processes continue.
Casualties and Presidential Condolences
Civil Defense forces confirmed the toll of 11 dead and 19 injured, with specialized teams continuing to assess the damage and finalize reports. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims, mourning the loss of the children, while official sources noted that the complete identification and ages of all victims are still being processed by the competent medical authorities.
Extreme Heatwave and Summer Wildfires
The tragedy coincides with an exceptional heatwave across Algeria, which has forced prolonged usage of cooling systems and contributed to a sharp rise in regional fires. The Civil Defense reported that northern Algeria witnessed around one thousand fires over the past week alone, most of which have been brought under control. However, a municipal worker tragically lost his life while battling a blaze in the Setif province. Algeria routinely faces severe summer forest fires, which have worsened in recent years due to prolonged drought and climate change, causing significant casualties and widespread destruction to agricultural lands and property.
