Massive Fire Engulfs Santo Domingo Market: Millions in Losses, Merchants Devastated

Market Fire in La Guáyiga Causes Millions in Losses A devastating fire ripped through the Santo Domingo Market in La Guáyiga, Dominican Republic, on June 9, 2025, around 5 PM, leaving at least 56 businesses in ruins and causing millions of dollars in damage. Mirtha Elena Pérez, the municipal director of La Guáyiga, described the scene as "heartbreaking." "We can only thank God that there were no casualties," she said, "but the financial losses are immense." The fire, the cause of which is still under investigation, quickly spread through the market's Nave Uno section, destroying goods ranging from alcohol and sugar to grains and plastics. Many merchants arrived to find their livelihoods reduced to ashes, with some seen openly weeping at the loss of their businesses and years of hard work. The video footage shows the extensive damage and the debris removal efforts underway. Despite the tragedy, the community has shown remarkable solidarity, with support pouring in from neighboring towns such as San Pedro de Macorís and San Cristóbal. The quick response from the over 300 firefighters and the arrival of Public Works crews with demolition equipment demonstrate a coordinated effort to manage the crisis and prevent further damage. The incident highlights the need for improved fire safety measures and water access within the market to prevent future disasters.