City Hall and Civil Defense work to control the situation; Rio Grande do Sul politicians regret what happened and demand investigations
A large fire hit Colégio Marista Santa Maria, in Santa Maria, in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul. So far, there is no information about injuries or whether there were people inside the building when the fire started. Videos shared on social media show a large cloud of smoke visible from blocks away, indicating the severity of the fire.
The mayor of Santa Maria, Rodrigo Decimo (PSD), reported on social media that the city hall is monitoring the situation and has made its entire structure, including Civil Defense, available to assist with whatever is necessary. “Our priority is everyone’s safety,” highlighted the mayor.
Colégio Marista Santa Maria, founded 120 years ago, is located on Rua Floriano Peixoto, in the city center. Rio Grande do Sul politicians lamented what happened. Federal deputy Paulo Pimenta (PT) highlighted that the school is part of the city’s history and the formation of generations of Santa Maria residents. “May everyone be well and may the situation be controlled as soon as possible”, he added.
Federal deputy Fernanda Melchionna (PSOL) also expressed regret and highlighted the importance of a quick and transparent investigation into the causes of the fire. “It is essential that investigations are conducted with agility, transparency and rigor, to clarify the facts, determine responsibilities and avoid new incidents,” he stated.
*With information from Estadão Conteúdo
