Firefighters Tackle Blaze Near Addolorata Cemetery

Flames Lick the Sky: Firefighters Battle Blaze Near Addolorata Cemetery

Smoke billowed into the evening sky, painting an eerie backdrop against the historic Addolorata Cemetery in Birkirkara. A fire, fueled by strong winds, engulfed a derelict building adjacent to the cemetery, sending firefighters into a battle that lasted well into the night.

First Responders Arrive on the Scene

The first call came in around 7 PM, with reports of a large fire at the abandoned building on Triq il-Karmnu, just a stone’s throw from the cemetery’s iconic gates. The Malta Fire Rescue Service swiftly deployed multiple teams, with the first engines arriving within minutes. “The fire was already well-established when we got there,” said a firefighter who wished to remain anonymous. “The wind was our biggest enemy, fanning the flames and making containment difficult.”

Community Concern and Evacuations

Residents in nearby streets, including Triq il-Karmnu and Triq l-Imqaddes, were advised to keep windows closed and stay indoors as firefighters worked to contain the blaze. Some residents were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. “We could feel the heat from our balcony,” said Maria, a resident of a nearby apartment block. “It was scary, but the firefighters were quick to act.”

The fire also raised concerns about the safety of the historic cemetery, with some worried about potential damage to the crypts and tombs. However, the MFRS assured the public that no damage had been reported at the cemetery.

Fire Under Control, Investigation Underway

After several hours of intense fighting, firefighters finally managed to bring the blaze under control around midnight. The building was left gutted, its charred remains a stark contrast to the peaceful cemetery it once stood beside. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with arson not being ruled out.

“We’re grateful for the quick response of the MFRS,” said Birkirkara Local Council representative, Joe Xuereb. “This could have been much worse. We’ll be working with the relevant authorities to ensure the safety of our residents and the preservation of our historic sites.”