Saida P. did not suffer first- and second-degree burns, but rather second- and third-degree burns, which is why she was flown to the specialist clinic in Seville. The pyrotechnics used (fuego frío) had been authorised, even though the gala’s organisers denied this.
The organising body (Consejalía de Fiestas) is accused of serious errors, including the fact that, whilst the press release issued prior to the gala mentioned the use of pyrotechnics in a fantasy sequence, the safety protocol for the gala did not include this detail and, as a result, the fire brigade was not informed.
Following the accident, the standard procedure was not followed either, which is making it more difficult to trace the evidence. The designer behind Saida P.’s fantasy collection criticised the situation backstage, which he described as a „mousetrap“.
As a result, a sound technician had to throw a fire extinguisher to him, because access to the set – which consisted of a single ball of flame, with Saida trapped in the middle, unable to free herself from her costume due to her belt – was blocked, as the designer told the press. He and his wife also suffered burns whilst freeing Saida. The fire brigade only arrived later to help.
As is, unfortunately, always the case, victims become perpetrators and perpetrators become victims. Willy J., the designer of the special effect that triggered the fire through the integrated pyrotechnics, also suffered burns whilst coming to Saida’s aid and had to receive outpatient treatment.
The contestant in his fantasy, Magnolia C., was asked to present her fantasy after the accident. This contestant also suffered trauma and, in an interview, criticised the organisers‘ statements, as well as the fact that the gala was not called off. Magnolia did not take part in the parade in Santa Cruz with her fantasy.
Further investigations are set to identify those responsible for this accident. It remains to be seen to what extent they will be held to account. Investigations are also continuing into whether Willy J. used pyrotechnics other than those authorised in the protocol. Incidentally, Willy J.’s ideas were not checked by the organisers.
To me, this is yet another example of what can happen when people hold positions for which they are not qualified, given their level of education.
Ánimo Saida, queen of the Canary Islanders‘ hearts, and to all those affected by this tragic accident.
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