Pyrotechnics from the fake Cannon in this costume are thought to be the origin of the blaze.
Soraya Rodríguez Castro, wearing a costume entitled “Volare” designed by Saliarca Creatives (Meridian CC) was elected Santa Cruz Carnaval Queen 2013 yesterday.
But the 3 hour gala event featuring Bollywood style dancing, was overshadowed after competitor number 7, Saida Maria Prieto, had to be rushed to hospital.
The accident happened around 10.15 pm just before Saida was due to go on stage, when pyrotechnics which were part of another competitors’ costume caught Saida’s own costume on fire.
She suffered first and second degree burns to 40% of her body.
Four other people were also treated for burns including designers Víctor Manuel Díaz Lladó and María Carolina Hernández Padrón, who were injured helping to free Saida.
The burning costume
A spokesperson at the Hospital Universitario de Canarias told reporters that at the wish of the family, no information will be given out publicly regarding the young woman’s progress.
Police and Council officials are investigating the cause of the blaze, but first indications are that some kind of flare was incorporated into the mock cannons of the costume worn by Magnolia Cruz, representing Radio Club Tenerife.
Santa Cruz Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez has announced that today’s Carnaval activities are suspended and more information will be give tomorrow regarding further events.
The local authority have made arrangements for the family of the young woman to be transferred Seville where she is currently being treated in the burns unit of the Hospital Virgen del Rocío.
Mayor Bermúdez is intending to travel with the family.
Have Your Say