A fire at the Bouwer Penitentiary in Córdoba, Argentina, resulted in the deaths of two female inmates, leading to calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances and accountability.
In December 2025, a tragic fire broke out at the Bouwer Penitentiary located on the outskirts of Córdoba, Argentina, claiming the lives of two female inmates, Agostina Guadalupe Pedraza and María Flavia Ramallo. At 25 and 33 years old respectively, both women were in isolation cells when the fire erupted on December 20. Two months following the incident, the families of the victims have raised alarm and are demanding an exhaustive investigation into the causes of the fire and why they were not evacuated alongside other inmates who were rescued.
The victims' families are advocating for justice, as they expressed frustration and confusion over the circumstances that led to the death of their loved ones. Valeria Soledad Romero, the mother of Agostina, has formally requested to be a co-complainant in the investigations to ensure accountability. Concerns have also been voiced over the conditions within the prison, raising questions about safety protocols and emergency response measures that could have potentially prevented the tragedy.
As the investigation unfolds, it sheds light on the broader issues surrounding prison conditions in Argentina, particularly regarding the treatment of inmates and the adequacy of facilities. The tragic event is emblematic of ongoing concerns regarding human rights and safety within the penal system, calling into question the responsibilities of prison authorities in safeguarding the lives of those they detain.
