A powerful explosion occurred early on the morning of February 24 in the community of Santiago del Rey, located along the Chaltura - Urcuquí route in the Antonio Ante canton of Imbabura, Ecuador. Citizens alerted authorities around 2:00 AM to a fire at a mixed construction lodging facility known as Airbnb Zahies Garden, which was being rented to tourists. The explosion not only shocked local residents but also led to a subsequent fire that consumed the property, causing significant damage and resulting in four fatalities.

Marco Narváez, the police commander for Zone 1, confirmed that the explosion originated from the rental space where people were present at the time of the incident. Early investigations suggest that the occupants may have been engaging in illicit activities related to explosives. Further inquiries are underway to establish the precise cause of the explosion and the individuals involved, as the authorities work to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

This incident has raised concerns about public safety and illegal activities in the region, spurring local police to increase surveillance and enforcement. The fact that a rental property like Airbnb Zahies Garden was involved speaks to broader issues of regulation and oversight in the lodging industry, particularly regarding the safety measures in place for guests and neighbors. As authorities continue their investigation, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating explosion and its implications for local governance and safety norms.