Fire at a nursing home in Chile's Araucanía region killed 16 residents on Monday.

Emergency crews rescued ten people from the building, while dozens of other residents were moved to safety, according to the BBC.

The blaze erupted in the early hours, engulfing the facility's main wing before firefighters could contain it. The cause remains under investigation, officials said.

Witnesses described thick smoke pouring from the windows as staff scrambled to usher frail occupants out of their rooms. Many were carried on stretchers, their families waiting anxiously outside.

Regional civil defence officials coordinated the response, deploying multiple fire engines and ambulances. The health ministry dispatched a medical team to treat those with smoke inhalation.

Emergency services battle the blaze

Firefighters from the Araucanía fire department arrived within minutes, using ladders to reach upper floors where the fire had spread. Water streams were directed at the roof, which appeared to be the fire's point of origin.

Paramedics set up a triage area on the grounds, providing oxygen and basic first aid before transporting the injured to the nearest hospital in Temuco.

Investigation and safety concerns

Authorities have opened a formal inquiry into the incident, focusing on building compliance and fire safety measures. Chile has faced several nursing home fires in recent years, prompting calls for stricter regulations and regular inspections.

The Ministry of Health said it would review fire‑prevention protocols across all elderly care facilities, a step aimed at preventing similar tragedies.

Impact on families and community

Relatives of the victims gathered at the site, many holding photographs of the deceased. Local community leaders expressed grief, describing the loss as a "deep wound" to the region.

Support services, including counselling, have been offered to families and staff coping with the aftermath.

Further updates are expected as investigators determine the fire's cause and assess the broader implications for Chile's elder‑care system.