A fierce fire ravaged part of a commercial center in Villa Celina, La Matanza, on Saturday, with no injuries reported as the site was closed. The flames started in deposits containing flammable materials and produced a thick cloud of smoke visible across the suburbs. Firefighters battled the blaze facing delays in arrival and low water pressure.
The large-scale fire broke out in a commercial center located meters from the Ricchieri highway, in the La Matanza district. The building, which previously operated as a gas station, was engulfed in flames that started in two deposits on the ground floor and basement, according to operational sources. These deposits stored highly flammable materials like cotton and nylon, which accelerated the fire's spread to the first floor.
Neighbors reported that the first fire crew took about half an hour to arrive, allowing the blaze to extend. Television footage showed firefighters struggling due to low water pressure. The initial goal was to secure the building's front before tackling internal hotspots. As a result, at least four stores were destroyed, and a parked vehicle on the sidewalk was also hit by the flames.
The Buenos Aires Health Ministry confirmed no injuries occurred, as the complex was closed with no merchants or customers inside. Firefighters from Villa Celina, supported by personnel from San Justo, handled the operation. Nearby streets, including Olavarría and the Ricchieri Collector, were closed, disrupting traffic. A merchant recounted: “There were no crews available, and when one unit arrived, there was no water either. Plus, there's a risk of collapse.” A neighbor added that most stores sell textiles, contributing to the fire's rapid spread.
Authorities are still investigating the fire's origin and working to fully control the situation. The smoke drifted and affected local residents.