Laura Daniela Villamil, who had worked at Andrés Carne de Res for five years, was involved in an accident during a performance where actors used torches as part of their act.
At the time of the incident, Laura and her colleagues were in an area designated for performances and concerts. Reports indicate that one of Laura’s colleagues accidentally brought the torch’s flame too close to Laura’s dress, causing her outfit to catch fire rapidly.
A video circulating on social media captures the critical moment when the fire spread to Laura Daniela’s clothing. In the video, the audience and other participants appear shocked and immobile, unable to assist as the fire quickly engulfs her attire.
Chronology of the Laura Daniela Villamil fire
Laura’s sister, in an interview broadcast by Marca Colombia, revealed that Laura’s condition is extremely serious. “I heard reports that she was out of danger and her wounds were healed, but that is not true at all. Laura is in critical condition. Doctors say these days are crucial for her recovery.
She is on assisted ventilation, has three catheterizations, and her severe burns, which are second and third-degree, are being treated,” Laura’s sister stated.
Criticism of the restaurant soon emerged following the accident, with several actors and concerned parties accusing Andrés Carne de Res of negligence and disregard for workplace safety.
Johan Velandia, an actor who claims to be a close friend of Laura Daniela, spoke to El Tiempo and expressed his frustration with the restaurant. “It is very unfortunate that this happened. It also exposes an alleged system of mistreatment of workers in places like this with artists,” Velandia said on August 22.
Velandia added that after the accident, the restaurant did not show sufficient concern. “I have spoken with Laura’s brother and with the staff at Andrés Carne de Res.
The restaurant’s response was to keep the group working. Laura is now in a critical condition between life and death. Although the restaurant issued a statement claiming they acted quickly, there are many patrons who say otherwise,” Velandia added.
In response to the criticism and accusations directed at them, Andrés Carne de Res issued an official statement. The restaurant explained the actions taken after the accident occurred.
“From the moment this unfortunate event happened, we immediately activated all established safety and care protocols. We ensured Laura received medical assistance as quickly as possible by transferring her to a medical center,” the statement read on social media.
The restaurant also stated that they continue to monitor Laura’s condition and verify the safety measures at their establishment.
“We are committed to providing ongoing support and monitoring Laura’s condition, as well as ensuring that safety at our restaurant is reviewed and improved to prevent similar incidents in the future,” the statement added.
This incident highlights the importance of workplace safety in entertainment venues and emphasizes the need for strict protocols to protect workers from potential hazards.
The public and concerned parties are now awaiting further developments regarding Laura Daniela Villamil’s condition and the steps Andrés Carne de Res will take to improve their safety systems.
Laura Daniela Villamil’s family and colleagues hope that this incident not only serves as a valuable lesson for the restaurant but also for the entertainment industry as a whole. They hope that better preventive measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of workers in the future.
