At least 11 people have been killed and 19 remain missing after a fast-moving wildfire swept through southern Spain, trapping residents who tried to flee in their vehicles. Authorities said several victims died after taking unauthorized evacuation routes as flames rapidly spread across the region. The disaster is among Spain’s deadliest wildfires in recent years.
The wildfire broke out near Los Gallardos in the Andalusia region, where firefighters continued battling the blaze on Friday. Emergency officials had instructed some residents to evacuate using designated routes, while others in the nearby village of Bedar were advised to shelter in place because of the fire’s proximity. Many residents, however, fled as smoke and flames intensified.
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According to Andalusia’s head of emergencies, Antonio Sanz, four people believed to be British died inside a vehicle after becoming trapped. Seven more victims were found after apparently abandoning their cars in an attempt to escape on foot. Officials said 10 of the 11 victims appear to be foreign nationals, while one Spaniard has been confirmed among the dead.
Authorities said the official shelter-in-place guidance likely prevented a much higher death toll in Bedar, where most homes escaped the flames. Investigators believe some victims attempted to leave through a dry riverbed rather than the recommended evacuation route, which officials described as a fatal decision. Rescue teams continue searching for the 19 people still reported missing.
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Regional President Juanma Moreno said it was understandable that frightened residents tried to flee, but warned that unfamiliar escape routes can quickly become deadly during fast-moving wildfires. Firefighters remain on the ground working to contain the blaze while authorities continue victim identification and search operations.