A devastating fire tore through a large colonial building in Panama City‘s historic San Felipe district Casco Viejo early Sunday morning. The blaze completely destroyed the structure located between Avenida B and Calle 12. Officials confirmed that 22 families have lost everything.
The The National Government is now coordinating emergency assistance for all affected households. A detailed census conducted by the Panama Ministry of Housing and Land Management reveals the full scope of the tragedy. The victims include 32 adults, with 13 being elderly. Seven teenagers, 23 children, and six infants under three months old are also among those displaced. The fire started in the early morning hours, giving residents little time to escape with their belongings.
Emergency Shelter Activated for Fire Victims
Authorities have set up a temporary shelter at the José “Beto” Remón Gymnasium in Calidonia. All affected families will be relocated there as crews assess the damage. Two Senafront buses are transporting victims to the shelter this afternoon. The fire represents one of the most destructive residential blazes in the historic district in recent years, echoing the scale of the San Felipe fire disaster that reshaped the area’s housing landscape.
‘We are working tirelessly to ensure every family has a safe temporary refuge. The Ministry of Housing is evaluating structural damage, and we will help them find permanent homes in the future’ [Translated from Spanish]
President José Raúl Mulino personally sent a message of solidarity to the victims. He confirmed that the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Housing, and the Ministry of Social Development are collaborating on solutions. Vice Minister of Housing Fernando Méndez stated that the definitive relocation strategy is being coordinated with social development officials. The immediate priority remains providing safe shelter while long-term housing options are explored.
Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of the blaze. The historic San Felipe neighborhood, known for its colonial architecture and narrow streets, presents unique challenges for emergency response teams. The loss of this large residential building marks a significant blow to the community’s housing stock in an area already facing gentrification pressures. Families are being urged to contact the Panama Ministry of Housing and Land Management for assistance with documentation and temporary needs.