Carrefour Market in Hourtin Destroyed by Fire, 31 Employees Face Temporary Unemployment

A large fire completely destroyed the Carrefour Market supermarket in Hourtin, Gironde, on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The blaze has left 31 employees on temporary unemployment, and authorities are investigating the cause, with the possibility of a criminal act under consideration.

Details of the Fire

The fire erupted at the supermarket, located in the center of Hourtin, around 8:30 PM on Sunday evening. Approximately 3,000 square meters of the commercial space were consumed by the flames. Firefighters responded with a significant presence, including 70 firefighters and 15 vehicles from surrounding communities such as Lesparre, Soulac, and Carcans (France3 Regions). Despite their efforts, the supermarket was completely destroyed.

Investigation Underway

An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire. The public prosecutor’s office in Bordeaux estimates the damage at around 7 million euros (La Dépêche).

The mayor of Hourtin, Jean-Marc Signoret, suggested the possibility of a deliberate act, citing videos circulating on social media that appear to demonstrate individuals with incendiary devices near the store (Sud Ouest). The Lesparre-Médoc research brigade is leading the investigation into potential destruction of property by dangerous means.

Impact on Employees and Community

The fire has resulted in 31 employees being placed on temporary unemployment (Actu). The supermarket, which was less than ten years old and had recently undergone improvements, was an important local business, particularly for the town’s aging population and the influx of tourists during the summer months.

The store’s owners have stated their commitment to reopening as soon as possible, acknowledging that the process will be lengthy (La Dépêche).