Three children were killed in a fire that broke out in the Spooktown informal settlement in Bekkersdal yesterday, Tuesday, 29 May.
“We are investigating a case of inquest after three kids aged between two and 11 years were burned to death after the shack they were sleeping in caught fire. The incident happened at about 9.30pm,” Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, the Bekkersdal Police spokesperson said.
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Lefakane added it is alleged that the mother was also sleeping, with her kids in separate rooms, when the fire started.
“The mother allegedly managed to escape with her one-year-old, leaving the others behind. Two died on the scene as a result of their injuries, while the third one was rushed to the Bekkersdal EMS, where he succumbed to his injuries.”
The police are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Colonel Tinus Swart, the Bekkersdal Police station commander expressed his deepest sympathy to the family and urged the community to avoid leaving heaters and paraffin stoves unattended, especially during the night, as in most instances innocent children become victims.
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