Earlier on a Friday, a powerful blast of uncertain origin struck the Saratoga hotel in Havana, sending shockwaves through the historic center. Early reports described a scene of chaos as emergency crews moved quickly to establish a perimeter, assess casualties, and secure the area. Initial figures cited eight fatalities and more than a dozen missing, with about thirty people admitted to hospitals for treatment and observation. The situation prompted swift communication from national authorities and the presidency on social media, where updates were shared as investigations unfolded. The government outlined that early inquiries pointed to a possible gas leak, though this assessment remained unconfirmed as investigators collected evidence at the site. This was conveyed in statements attributed to the presidency and other official bodies. The Cuban head of state, President Miguel Díaz-Canel, appeared at the scene with Prime Minister Manuel Marrero and Esteban Lazo, the leader of the National Assembly, underscoring the gravity of the incident and the government’s commitment to transparency and rapid response.
Officials from the Cuban Communist Party indicated that nearby schoolchildren were evacuated safely as a precaution, and the surrounding neighborhood was mobilized to ensure that residents and visitors were accounted for and able to relocate if needed. The blast occurred around 10:50 am local time, producing a violent collapse of portions of the building’s façade and triggering a fire that sent a dense plume of smoke into the sky. Structural damage extended across multiple floors, with the ground, first, and second levels bearing the brunt of the explosion. Debris mounted along the pavement reached heights that crowded the street, and smoke and flames contributed to a rapidly changing and dangerous environment for first responders and bystanders alike.
Reports from the scene noted a large number of injured individuals, including several children, and witnesses described a chaotic atmosphere as medical teams, firefighters, and military personnel converged on Old Havana to manage the emergency. The immediate response focused on rescuing trapped individuals, providing urgent medical care, and safeguarding nearby residents as authorities assessed the risk of further collapse. As the investigation progressed, city officials continued to coordinate casualty reporting and safety measures while vetting information from observers and official channels.
Hotel Saratoga occupies a neoclassical structure that dates back to 1880 and has served as a hotel since 1933. Official updates indicated that the most recent restoration occurred in 2005, cementing its status as one of the capital city’s most prestigious lodging options. Located on Paseo del Prado, a prominent thoroughfare in Old Havana, the hotel is immersed in a district known for its architectural heritage and vibrant street life. The incident highlighted the vulnerabilities and responsibilities involved in preserving historic buildings that continue to function as functional hospitality spaces—balancing preservation, safety upgrades, and modern regulatory standards in a city that blends centuries of history with contemporary demands.