Paraguay marks 22‑year anniversary of Ycuá Bolaños supermarket fire

On August 1, 2004 a massive fire engulfed the Ycuá Bolaños supermarket in Asunción, Paraguay, killing more than 400 people and injuring over 500. The blaze spread rapidly after a poorly maintained chimney ignited, and witnesses say exit doors were deliberately locked by management to prevent customers from leaving without paying, a criminal act later prosecuted. The trial of Juan Pío Paiva and Víctor Daniel Paiva resulted in convictions that highlighted severe safety failures. The tragedy prompted stricter fire‑prevention regulations for public venues across the country.

Photographer Sebastián Cáceres captured one of the most striking images of the disaster, which was later discussed on the Popu TV program by host Fanny Funk, underscoring the lasting impact of the event on Paraguayan society.