Kwa-Thema – A man was killed on Mampe Street when a fire broke out at his home, leaving one other victim hospitalised on Monday morning.
Seven people were in the house during the incident – the man, his wife, their child and four grandchildren.
According to witnesses, the fire broke out around 03:00.
The fire has left the Masike family with nothing.
Ntokozo Msimanga, a neighbour, said they were awakened by the grandchildren’s screams.
He said while the children were trying to break their bedroom window so they could escape the blaze, they alerted the neighbours by calling for help.
Also read: Young siblings die in house fire
“We heard screams calling my mom’s name.
“When I went outside I realised that the house was on fire.
“On close inspection, I saw one of the children trying to flee the flames as the house was already covered in smoke and the entire dining room was alight,” said Msimanga.
He then assisted the children by breaking the window before attempting to save the others who were inside by wrapping himself in a wet blanket.
They managed to get everyone out of the burning house but unfortunately the deceased died while waiting for an ambulance.
A family relative, Nomvula Mfuphi said the fire was caused by a heater that was left on.
“We are pleading with the community to assist with anything that could be usable in our situation.
“The house needs to be rebuilt, new furniture is needed, clothes, roofing and electrical appliances as well and now also there’s a burial that we need to prepare for.
“At the moment they have nothing,” she said.
Community members along with Ward 78 Clr Sizwe Nhleko assisted with cleaning and support.
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