A fast-moving fire broke out at La Junquera restaurant in Zaragoza, prompting the evacuation of 30 diners and staff. Firefighters are working to contain the flames, which are visible from the Z-40.
A large fire erupted on Tuesday afternoon at the well-known La Junquera restaurant in Zaragoza, forcing the evacuation of around 30 diners and four staff members. The incident occurred just before 15:00 at the establishment located on Camino de la Fuente de la Junquera. Emergency services responded quickly as the flames spread rapidly throughout the building, making the smoke visible from the Z-40 ring road.
According to initial reports, the fire may have started due to an electrical fault, although the exact cause remains under investigation. One of the restaurant's managers noticed the air conditioning had stopped working and discovered flames in an electrical panel on the third floor. Attempts to extinguish the fire with a portable extinguisher were unsuccessful, as the blaze intensified and filled the area with thick, unbreathable smoke.
All customers and employees managed to leave the premises on their own, with only one person requiring medical attention for minor burns. The rapid escalation of the fire prompted multiple emergency calls, leading to a significant deployment of Zaragoza Fire Brigade resources. The response included three water tankers, two aerial ladders, two command vehicles, two support trucks, and two ambulances. Police from Zaragoza, Cuarte, and the National Police also secured the area and closed the road leading to the nearby locality.
Efforts are now focused on containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to adjacent properties. Once the situation is under control, the National Police Scientific Brigade will conduct an on-site investigation to determine the origin and possible responsibilities. This process is expected to begin within the next day or two, after which a formal report will be prepared.
La Junquera, established in 1948, is one of Zaragoza's most traditional hospitality venues, offering multiple dining rooms, terraces, a grill, barbecue area, and children's zone. The fire comes on a day marked by several incidents in the province: earlier, firefighters had to intervene at a construction site for the Inditex group in the Malpica industrial area, and another blaze was reported in a field near the railway tracks in El Burgo de Ebro.
Fires in restaurants and public venues, while not frequent, highlight the importance of regular electrical inspections and emergency preparedness. In Spain, hospitality businesses are required to comply with strict safety regulations, including fire prevention measures and evacuation protocols. The swift evacuation at La Junquera and the rapid response by emergency services helped prevent more serious injuries or damage. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in managing fire risks, especially during periods of increased activity or adverse weather conditions.
