Chilean police investigate fatal Pitrufquén nursing home fire

Investigators from the Chilean Investigative Police (PDI) conducted diligences at the El Edén nursing home in Pitrufquén following a fire that killed 16 elderly residents. Biochemical experts from the Temuco Criminalistics Laboratory have transferred samples to the Legal Medical Service to obtain DNA from the deceased to facilitate identification.

Commissioner Manuel Zamudio stated that resources are focused on providing certain results to families, noting that identification may take between three to five days depending on sample quality. Authorities have requested that family members provide voluntary DNA samples to assist the process.

In response to the tragedy, President José Antonio Kast has pledged to implement urgent measures to review the operating and safety conditions of elderly care homes across the country. The Ministries of Health and Social Development are holding meetings to reinforce inspections of these residences, as operating authorizations fall under health ministry jurisdiction.