Authorities in Croatia are conducting an intensive investigation into the cause of a major fire that broke out near Omis, a coastal town in Dalmatia, with officials emphasizing the coordinated efforts of emergency services and the military to contain the blaze. The incident has drawn attention due to the complexity of determining its origin, as well as the involvement of multiple agencies working together to manage the crisis. The fire erupted in the area of Stanići, a village near Omis, prompting immediate action from local firefighters and emergency responders. According to reports, the situation was initially under control in Omis itself before the flames spread to the Peljesac peninsula. Firefighters originally dispatched from northern parts of Croatia, including Koprinica and Zagreb County, were redirected to Peljesac after the fire intensified there. Minister of Internal Affairs Davor Božinović praised the collaboration among all involved parties, highlighting the joint effort of the Croatian Red Cross, the Croatian Institute for Public Health, the Civil Protection Directorate, and local residents. He noted that the government had allocated record funds for firefighting and rescue operations, underscoring the importance of community engagement during such crises. A woman named Dragana Antešević, 34 years old, went missing during the fire. She is described as having black hair, brown eyes, and average build. Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, she was last seen in the village of Stanići. According to unofficial information, she fled the fire in a car with two other individuals, one of whom sustained serious injuries. Authorities have released her photograph and personal details in hopes of locating her. Search efforts are focused around the area where the vehicle was located before she disappeared. The police continue their search, urging anyone with information to come forward. In response to the fire, the military has also been mobilized. Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ivan Anušić stated that the army is prepared to assist in firefighting efforts if needed. He confirmed that both ground troops and pilots are already engaged in the operation. Anušić emphasized that coordination with the prime minister and the head of the fire department is ongoing, ensuring readiness should additional support be required. The military has participated in previous fires whenever air support was necessary, given that helicopters and pilots form part of the Croatian Air Force. Anušić added that the headquarters of civil protection would meet later in the day in Omis, and he himself might travel to the area if further assistance becomes necessary. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with the state prosecution ordering forensic examinations to determine the origin. Minister Božinović acknowledged that no possibilities can be ruled out at this stage, noting that over 140 criminal and administrative complaints have been filed nationwide since January 1 through August 1 regarding the deliberate setting of fires. However, in only four cases has the perpetrator been identified. He explained that each institution plays its role, police detect incidents, the public prosecutor files charges, and courts issue rulings aimed at prevention. The summer of 2026 has been marked by extreme heat, which has contributed to the intensity of wildfires. Wind patterns play a crucial role in how quickly fires spread, necessitating continuous water-bombing operations by aircraft. Božinović highlighted the community's active participation in firefighting efforts, citing an example from the nearby village of Lovišće, where dozens of residents helped extinguish a smaller fire. He concluded that without the collective effort of the entire community, managing such situations would become increasingly difficult. The fire has left 36 people injured, seven of whom are fighting for their lives, according to recent updates. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković has arrived in Omis to oversee the response efforts. As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on identifying the cause of the fire while ensuring the safety and recovery of affected communities.
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