289 left homeless after fire

A total of 289 people, including 100 children, lost their homes and possessions in the Santa Ana fire in Panama City on Wednesday morning.

"As we have done in the past in these unfortunate situations, I guarantee all the victims will have a safe place to stay tonight," said Housing Minister José Domingo Arias.
The families will receive aid from the Panama City Mayor's Office and the Program of National Assistance (PAN). They will be housed in hotels for 10 to 15 days and be evaluated to see if they qualify for permanent housing.
Early reports said there were no injuries but a firefighter suffered first-degree burns and 17 others were treated for smoke inhalation and fatigue.