A fire razed at least 50 palapas in the tourist area of Mahahual, Quintana Roo, on Christmas night, with no injuries reported. The flames spread quickly through wooden and palm structures at the Krazy Lobster restaurant, resulting in losses exceeding two million pesos. Authorities detained a suspect and launched an investigation.
On the night of December 24, a fire consumed at least 50 palapas in the tourist strip of Costa Maya, specifically in Mahahual, Quintana Roo. These structures, used by service providers at the Krazy Lobster restaurant, were made of wood and palm, which allowed the flames to spread rapidly. No injuries were reported, but material losses exceed two million pesos.
A video shared on social media captured a man allegedly starting the fire shortly before it spread along the coastal area. Witnesses note that wind conditions in the early morning hours aided the expansion, complicating initial containment efforts. The blaze impacted family-owned businesses and local workers, striking a key source of employment and income in the community.
That same night, authorities detained a suspect, preliminarily identified as an artisan who was consuming alcoholic beverages at the site and may have caused the fire. The Fiscalía General del Estado de Quintana Roo opened an investigation file to establish responsibilities. Residents and merchants in Mahahual have demanded swift clarification of the events and support for the affected families, emphasizing the palapas' role in local tourism. Official updates on the probe are expected in the coming hours.
