Ten killed in daycare fire, 43 injured

The death toll in the aftermath of the tragedy in Janaúba, in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais, now stands at ten. The injured add up to 43. On Thursday morning (Oct. 5), the security guard of a daycare center set fire to his own body and that of four children.

Thirteen patients in a more serious condition were sent to a hospital known for burn treatment in the state capital Belo Horizonte. Other victims were transferred to Montes Claros, and 13 stayed in Janaúba.

The security guard, Damião Soares dos Santos, aged 50, walked into the school where he worked and set fire to the children and himself. Soares is among the people who died, along with teacher Helley Abreu Batista, 43, who attempted to stop him and helped rescue the children.

The daycare center is a public institution and receives children aged up to six years old. In addition to the guard and the teacher, Ana Clara Ferreira Silva, Luiz Davi Carlos Rodrigues, Juan Pablo Cruz dos Santos, Juan Miguel Soares Silva, and Renan Nicolas Santos, died in the incident—all of whom at the age of four.

Helvécio Albuquerque, the doctor in charge of the medical team who assisted the victims, said the injured will need special care due to the burns. Psychological treatment will also be necessary for both victims and family members. Four people are reported to have had 80% or more of their bodies burnt. Burns are regarded as severe when they reach 70% of a person's body.

City authorities are asking for donations to ensure the victims and their families receive assistance. Thus far, collections have totaled $55.9 thousand.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira