The priest who rescued people from the fire: "I think the fire was set"

A massive wildfire that engulfed the area around Lokva Rogoznica has left residents displaced and property destroyed. The fire, which began near the village of Lokva and spread rapidly over approximately 1,000 hectares, forced many families to evacuate their homes. Father Don Nikola Bodrožić, the parish priest of the nearby village of Omiš, was among those who actively participated in rescuing people from the flames, describing the situation as one of extreme danger and uncertainty. Father Bodrožić confirmed that none of his parishioners lost their lives during the blaze. He described the difficult conditions faced by the local population, noting that many were forced to abandon their homes while others remained behind to protect their properties. “Most had to leave their houses and families. Some stayed behind to defend their homes, but they couldn’t save all their belongings, especially cars,” he explained. He emphasized that the loss of property was particularly hard, with dozens of families unable to save their homes. The priest himself took part in efforts to extinguish the fire and rescue people. “At no moment did we think we were losing this battle, neither I nor the people who stayed behind. I remained until around 11 PM, then helped those I felt responsible for get to safety outside the affected area. Afterward, I tried to return via other routes to assist those in need as a priest,” he recounted. Among the most harrowing moments, he highlighted a sense of helplessness. “It’s the realization that you’re powerless because the fire spread so quickly that some may not have been able to feel safe or receive help. It’s a feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer speed and intensity of the blaze.” Father Bodrožić noted that the fire moved swiftly, starting perhaps two kilometers from the church and spreading from the coast up the hills toward Omiš. It was eventually contained in Omiš before moving onto the northern side of the Omiška Dinara. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, though the priest expressed his belief that it was deliberately set. “Yes, I believe it was arson. The fire started maybe two kilometers from the church,” he stated. “I don’t think it matters much who set it or who is to blame. What matters is how we can all work together to stop such incidents. This is already the third or fourth fire affecting the very area of Lokva, and in recent years, there might have been as many as ten fires affecting the entire parish, from Piska to Čelina. Almost every other year, somewhere in the parish, a fire appears.” Many residents remain exhausted, having lost their homes and vehicles. Father Bodrožić announced plans to organize aid for all affected individuals. “We will try, through the Bishopric, Caritas, and all other state institutions, to help people during this difficult time and ease whatever has happened to them in this unprecedented hardship,” he said. The incident has drawn attention beyond the local community. The football club Hajduk Split sent a message of support to Omiš and surrounding areas, expressing gratitude to those who fought to protect homes, property, and human life. They praised the bravery and sacrifice of those involved, offering condolences to those injured and wishing them a swift recovery. The club concluded its message with a familiar slogan: “While the Cetina flows, our unity will always be!”