Explosion at Lo Pagán bar injures 16, two of them left in critical condition
The blast near the street market in San Pedro del Pinatar caused chaos, with authorities suspecting a gas leak as the cause
Sixteen people were injured on Thursday June 19 following a powerful explosion at Casa Javi, a bar situated next to the street market in Lo Pagán, San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia).
The blast occurred just before 12.30pm, sparking panic among locals who initially feared it was a bomb or even an aircraft breaking the sound barrier, which are sometimes heard in the area.
Two women suffered life-threatening injuries and were rushed to Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital in Murcia. One, a 38-year-old foreign national and current manager of the bar, was admitted to the Burns Unit. The other, whose identity has not yet been released, underwent emergency surgery for severe head trauma and was taken to the intensive care unit.
Another person was seriously injured and transported to Los Arcos del Mar Menor hospital, while three more with moderate injuries were taken to hospitals in Los Arcos and Cartagena. Several others with minor wounds received treatment locally.
Emergency services were quickly deployed, including firefighters, Local Police, Civil Protection, the Guardia Civil and ambulances from the 061 Emergency Services. A total of 16 people were treated at the scene, though witnesses believe more may have left without reporting their injuries.
Initial investigations suggest the cause of the explosion may have been a gas leak, although a specialist unit from the Guardia Civil in Valencia has been brought in to carry out a thorough inquiry.
Casa Javi had previously drawn complaints for alleged public safety issues, including fights in the past and a fire just over a year ago. Police have reportedly visited the premises on multiple occasions.
San Pedro Mayor Pedro Javier Sánchez confirmed the bar was closed at the time, which he said may have limited the number of casualties. Fortunately, the structure of the building was not compromised.
The aftermath was described as chaotic, with debris scattered across the adjacent market, injured people lying on the pavement and stalls destroyed. Local festivities for the feast of San Juan were suspended, and the regional president pledged full support for those affected.
The Town Hall has set up a care point to assist victims and will take part in any legal proceedings.
Images: Ayuntamiento de San Pedro del Pinatar
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