Chile Arrests Suspect for Allegedly Starting Devastating Wildfires

Man Detained with Matches and Fuel as Chile Battles Deadly Blazes

Chilean authorities have arrested a man suspected of deliberately starting multiple wildfires that have ravaged the country's central and southern regions, killing at least 20 people and forcing 50,000 to evacuate. The arrest comes as Chile faces one of its worst wildfire seasons in recent memory, with President Gabriel Boric declaring a state of emergency in the hardest-hit Biobío and Ñuble regions.

Arrest Details and Evidence

The suspect was apprehended in the La Araucanía region, approximately 700 kilometers south of Santiago, where authorities allege he ignited fires that destroyed four hectares of natural land. During his arrest, police confiscated matches and a jerrycan containing over five liters of fuel. 'This is a serious situation,' said Chile's Minister of Justice, emphasizing the gravity of the ongoing crisis.

According to Al Jazeera, the death toll from the wildfires has risen to 19, with around 85 square kilometers (33 square miles) already burned and at least 250 homes destroyed. The fires have been particularly devastating in the towns of Penco and Lirquén, where most fatalities occurred.

Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response

Chile is currently battling at least 35 active fire fronts across its central and southern territories. The Biobío and Ñuble regions, located about 500 kilometers south of Santiago, have been declared disaster zones. 'We are mobilizing all available resources,' President Boric stated during a national address, as reported by CBS News.

Nearly 4,000 firefighters are working to contain the blazes, which have been exacerbated by extreme weather conditions. Summer temperatures have soared to nearly 40°C (104°F), accompanied by strong winds that have rapidly spread the flames. The Associated Press notes that this disaster follows Chile's devastating 2024 wildfires that killed 138 people near Viña del Mar, which Boric called the country's greatest tragedy since the 2010 earthquake.

Climate Context and Regional Tensions

The wildfires occur amid a severe heatwave affecting South America and ongoing drought conditions linked to climate change. According to Wikipedia data on 2024 South American wildfires, anthropogenic climate change and the 2023-2024 South American drought have created conditions conducive to massive fire outbreaks across the continent.

The La Araucanía region, where the suspect was arrested, has experienced previous arson attacks. In November 2025, Infobae reported four arson attacks within 48 hours in the area, with radical Mapuche organization Weichan Auka Mapu claiming responsibility for some incidents. However, authorities have not linked the current suspect to any organized group.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook

With unfavorable weather conditions expected to continue, Chilean authorities warn that firefighting efforts will remain challenging in the coming days. Evacuation centers have been established for displaced residents, and international aid offers are being coordinated.

The arrest highlights the complex challenges Chile faces in combating wildfires, which combine natural factors like climate change with potential human criminal activity. As the investigation continues, authorities are examining whether additional suspects may be involved in starting other fires across the affected regions.