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Death toll from Guatemala children's home rises to 39

Death toll from Guatemala children's home rises to 39

Guatemala

Grieving parents lay to rest another victim of the fire at a children’s shelter in Guatemala.

The number of girls killed in the tragedy has climbed to 39, with several still in a critical condition.

Anger over the deaths has been concentrated on the government, after it emerged the girls had been locked in a classroom when a fire broke out.

Thousands took to the streets of Guatemala City on Saturday, reading the names and ages of the dead girls.

President Jimmy Morales blamed the state-run institutions for the deaths and promised reforms. Pledges that fell on deaf ears at the protest, as many called on the leader step down.

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