Mao house fire kills five family members, including three children

A family of five, including three young children, died in a house fire during the early hours of Tuesday in the La Compuerta sector of Mao, Valverde province. The victims have been identified as Yudelca del Carmen Goris Estévez, 32; Juan Félix Ventura, 34; Yudelis Durán, 9; Samantha Ventura, 5; and Jadelin Ventura, 8 months.

The fire was reported around 2:31 a.m. and quickly consumed the residence, leaving it in ruins. Local firefighters responded to the scene to control the flames, but the occupants were unable to escape. Neighbors reported hearing cries for help as the fire spread rapidly.

Authorities, including the National Police, the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF), and the Central Directorate of Investigation (DICRIM), attended the scene to recover the bodies and secure the area. While some residents suggested a short circuit as a possible cause, official investigations are ongoing to determine the exact origin and circumstances of the tragedy.