Fire Sweeps 3 Street Markets In Honduras' Capital

Published February 19, 2012 2:54AM (EST)

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP) — A fire has swept through street markets in the capital of Honduras, a nation traumatized just five days ago by a fire that killed 358 people at a prison.

Authorities say 11 people were injured and about 1,800 stalls burned, but there were no deaths.

Saturday's fire burned through several blocks of three markets and sent thick plumes of black smoke wafting over Tegucigalpa, the capital. The fire appeared to have hit stands selling mainly clothes and sneakers.

Mayor Ricardo Alvarezsaid says two women were rescued, one with a head injury and another with symptoms of asphyxiation.

The blaze Tuesday night that killed 358 people was the worst prison fire in a century. It happened in Comayagua, about 55 miles (90 kilometers) north of Tegucigalpa.


By Salon Staff

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