GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR — A deadly explosion outside Mall del Sol on Monday evening claimed the life of a taxi driver, leaving the community in shock and prompting a massive security response.

GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR — An explosion that occurred outside Mall del Sol on Monday evening resulted in the death of a taxi driver, shocking the local community and triggering an extensive security response. The incident took place at approximately 6:30 p.m. close to the Sheraton Hotel, where a parked car unexpectedly ignited and erupted in flames a few minutes later. Officials later verified that the event was intentional and involved powerful explosives. Investigators found that there were four explosive devices planted at the scene, with one of them having already exploded. The other explosives, including a second vehicle that had been outfitted with bombs, were safely defused by bomb disposal experts. Authorities indicated that the explosives were expertly constructed, featuring safety fuses and electronic ignition systems, suggesting a high degree of technical skill. CCTV footage recorded the frantic moments surrounding the explosion. Flames burst from the vehicle, propelling deb...