On Thursday, a fire in two ground-floor flats in Valencia's Benicalap neighbourhood prompted the preventive evacuation of 80 residents from two adjacent apartment blocks. Municipal sources confirmed that no injuries were reported, though dense smoke accumulation necessitated the precautionary measure.
Dozens of fire service crews were deployed to the scene on Picayo street. While the blaze is now under control, emergency teams remain on site to manage residual risks. The flames were contained to the ground floor, which was occupied by squatters and was scheduled for a court-ordered eviction later that day, according to police sources.
Investigation into Possible Arson
Investigators are analysing whether the fire was started deliberately, though other lines of inquiry remain open. The timing of the incident—coinciding with the planned eviction—has raised suspicions. Valencia's mayor, María José Catalá, visited the scene and noted that some residents might not be able to return home overnight due to high smoke concentrations.
The city council activated the Social Emergency Care and Emergency Support Service (SAUS) to assist those affected and assess their needs. Mayor Catalá highlighted that firefighters are continuing extinguishing operations and rescuing pets. She confirmed that a court-ordered eviction had taken place in the ground-floor properties earlier in the day and that the causes of the fire are under investigation, with no hypothesis ruled out.
Several resident groups have complained that the situation with the squatters had become untenable. One resident stated: "There were threats, a lot of filth and even faeces on the floor." The incident underscores ongoing tensions around squatting and housing in Spanish cities, a challenge that resonates across Europe as housing shortages persist.
The fire comes amid broader European concerns about urban safety and property rights. While Valencia has not experienced the scale of wildfires seen in southern France, the incident highlights the vulnerability of densely populated neighbourhoods to such emergencies.
Mayor Catalá assured that some residents have already been taken to a municipal centre for temporary accommodation. The council is coordinating with social services to provide ongoing support. The investigation into the fire's origin continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
