Fire in Santa Ponsa: 20 Apartments Evacuated After Short Circuit

Fire in bar triggers large-scale response in Santa Ponsa

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Last evening, around 7:10 p.m., a fire broke out in a small bar on Avinguda de Santa Ponça. The flames spread quickly to the venue; the interior of the bar was reportedly completely destroyed. Within a few minutes fire brigades, police and emergency medical services were on the scene — neighbors and guests had to leave their apartments and flats.

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Cause: Short circuit on the illuminated sign

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Investigators, according to an initial assessment, attribute the fire to a short circuit in an illuminated sign. Utility technicians were called in to temporarily shut off power to the street. A concrete extent of the damage is still being assessed; however the fire clearly showed how quickly a fire can spread in densely built areas.

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Evacuation and care for those affected

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In total, about 20 apartments in adjacent buildings were evacuated. Volunteer helpers and municipal responders organized a makeshift gathering point at a nearby sports hall; around 100 people were accommodated as a precaution and given medical screening. Many returned after the fire was cleared by the fire department late in the evening, some stayed temporarily with relatives or in hotels.

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Two officers injured – during the rescue operation two police officers were injured by smoke inhalation. They had rescued a 70-year-old woman from one of the upper apartments. According to authorities, the woman was disoriented and needed assistance leaving the building. Both injured officers received outpatient treatment and were released later.

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Statements and aftereffects

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“It was dense smoke, you could hardly breathe,” said a resident who wished to be identified only by her first name, María. “The firefighters worked quickly, but the images stay in your mind.” Firefighters had to open parts of the ceiling to extinguish embers. Investigators were called in to determine the exact cause and whether there were further safety deficiencies.

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The police set up a short barrier; traffic on Avinguda was diverted for about two hours. Electricians checked electrical systems in several buildings after the operation.

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Practical tips

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Authorities urge residents to pay attention to electrical connections, old cables and illuminated signs. If you notice unusual smells or flames, immediately call emergency services and warn buildings through loudspeakers or by ringing, rather than wasting time searching for items.

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In the coming days, follow-up checks will take place. Information on insurance steps and temporary accommodation will be offered to affected residents. If you have photos or tips about how the evening unfolded, please contact the local police station.

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Such incidents always give the sense that things can happen faster than you think. Fortunately there were no fatalities, but the memory of a long breath of smoke or the screech of sirens lingers for a long time.