Deadly fire destroys 10 shacks in Delmore
Tragedy struck the Delmore Informal Settlement as a raging fire tore through ten shacks, leaving one man dead and multiple families homeless.
Ten shacks were destroyed and one life tragically lost when a fierce fire broke out in the Delmore informal settlement late on the evening of May 21.
According to William Ntladi, district manager Media Liaison for Ekurhuleni Emergency and Disaster Management Services (DEMS), the call reporting the fire was received at 23:05.
“Firefighters from Primrose Fire Station were the first to respond, with backup crews dispatched from Bedfordview, Germiston, and Edenvale fire stations due to the high risk of the fire spreading throughout the settlement.
“On arrival, firefighters were met with a fast-spreading blaze driven by strong winds, rapidly consuming structures from the point of origin. A team of 21 firefighters used two attack lines to contain and extinguish the fire before it could engulf more homes.”
The remains of a male resident in his early sixties were found burnt beyond recognition beneath the debris.
“The cause of the fire is still undetermined. The scene has been handed over to the SAPS for investigation, and the deceased was transported to a suitable pathological facility.”
Ntladi noted several challenges faced during the operation.
“Access to the scene was severely restricted due to narrow roads and low-hanging, self-connected overhead electrical cables. Long hose lines had to be used, resulting in significant pressure loss which complicated our efforts.”
Reiger Park SAPS spokesperson, Constable Johannes Msimanga confirmed that the matter was reported and investigations are underway.
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