Major Fire Forces Partial Evacuation at Santa Lucía Hospital in Cartagena, No Injuries Reported

Fire Erupts at Cartagena Hospital

A substantial fire broke out at the Santa Lucía Hospital in Cartagena, Spain, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, prompting a partial evacuation of the facility. The incident began around 7:15 AM to 7:30 AM, with emergency services receiving over 30 calls shortly after 7:25 AM. The blaze originated on the terrace of Block 5 of the hospital complex.

Strong winds in the area contributed to the rapid spread of the flames, which quickly engulfed the building's façade and reached the third and fifth floors. Reports also indicated that parts of Blocks 4 and 6 were affected.

Swift Evacuation and Firefighting Response

Upon detection of the fire, the hospital's self-protection and emergency plan was immediately activated. This led to the evacuation of patients from the second, third, fourth, and fifth floors of Block 5, particularly those in rooms closest to the fire. More than 50 patients were moved to safer areas within the hospital, while some were transferred to nearby medical facilities such as Hospital Santa María del Rosell and Los Arcos del Mar Menor.

Approximately 20 firefighters from the Cartagena Fire Department were deployed to the scene. Their rapid intervention, aided by the fire station's close proximity, allowed them to bring the fire under control within 20 to 30 minutes, by approximately 8:00 AM.

No Injuries Reported, Investigation Underway

Despite the intensity of the fire and the extensive material damage, particularly to the exterior façade of Block 5, authorities confirmed that there were no serious injuries or casualties among patients or staff. Some individuals reportedly suffered smoke inhalation.

Cartagena's mayor, Noelia Arroyo, stated that all available municipal fire and rescue teams were mobilized. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Regional Scientific Police Brigade. Initial hypotheses suggest the blaze may have been accidental, possibly caused by a 'poorly extinguished cigarette.'

Previous Incidents and Building Safety

This incident marks the second fire of its kind at Santa Lucía Hospital in a decade. A previous fire, also attributed to a cigarette butt, damaged part of Block 1. Following the recent event, concerns were raised regarding the flammability of building materials. However, the regional president, Fernando López Miras, affirmed that the hospital, inaugurated in 2011, complies with all current regulations and passed its last safety review in June 2025.