Due to the intensity of the fire and the proximity of other structures, including educational centers, residences, and businesses, operations remain in a defensive phase to prevent its spread. The Panama Fire Department reported an emergency due to a fire on 11 and a half Street in Río Abajo, near the Reynaldo Grenald gym. "Several parts of the building have collapsed," indicated Major Otilio Racine, of the Operations Directorate for Extinction, Search, and Rescue. Preliminarily, it was reported that about 12 people were working at the site at the time of the fire. A fire broke out on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, on 11 and a half Street in Río Abajo, near the Reynaldo Grenald gym, prompting the mobilization of officials from the Panama Fire Department. The alarm was activated at 2:24 p.m., following reports of a dense column of smoke and fire visible in a shed housing an automotive parts workshop. The first vehicle to arrive was from the Carrasquilla station, whose personnel confirmed the magnitude of the fire and immediately requested reinforcements. Units from stations such as San Miguelito and Betania arrived at the scene, bringing together more than 50 firefighters and at least six firefighting vehicles. Authorities are investigating the possible disappearance of a person who may not have managed to escape the structure. The fire has generated a dense cloud of smoke that has spread to nearby areas, so residents and passersby are advised to avoid the area to prevent inhalation hazards. As of now, no injuries have been reported, while control, extinguishing, and cooling operations continue to mitigate risks and protect adjacent structures.
