As per reports, the female section of a children’s shelter near Guatemala City was hit by fire early Wednesday. At least 20 resident girls died, while many others were injured. Photos showed sneaker-clad bodies covered with blue sheets.

Relatives waiting outside the shelter for news of their children were given pieces of paper by the shelter personnel to mention their children’s name. It was then used to locate the children.

Reports revealed that there were frequent complaints about abuse and living conditions at the shelter. On Tuesday, youths started rioting in an effort to escape from the shelter. On Wednesday at around 9 am, some of the youths lit their mattresses on fire.

The official capacity of the shelter was of 500, however, at least 800 youths were being kept there.

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