Cubans recall tragic explosion at Saratoga Hotel in Havana

Havana, May 6 (Prensa Latina) Cubans on Saturday recall the sad explosion at the Saratoga Hotel in Havana, as a result of which several people were killed and injured, caused huge material damage, and kept citizens in suspense for six days of intense rescue efforts. On May 6, 2022, a powerful gas explosion rocked this tourist facility in Havana's historic heart, killing 47 persons and injuring 99, mainly hotel workers and passersby.

May 6, 2023
08:26

The blast occurred when a tanker truck laden with liquefied gas was serving the hotel, which was about to reopen. A gas leak when the hotel was being served caused the explosion.

The shock wave destroyed the facades of the three lower floors of the building and affected 23 buildings in the area, including 17 homes.

Rescuers, firefighters, and specialized personnel immediately began removing debris and searching for trapped people, while the injured were taken to several hospitals in Havana.

After the search for bodies and the rescue operations were completed, President Miguel Diaz-Canel decreed official mourning on May 13 and 14, and the capital’s youth, convened by the Young Communist League (UJC), held a vigil at Fraternity Park, which is across from the hotel.

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