Local news

Fire destroys house in West Turffontein

Any donations will be appreciated by the Mahlambi family.

The fire caused by an unattended heater destroyed Sbonisile Mahlambi’s house in West Turffontein, Sworder Street, on July 8.

Mahlambi, who is disabled, said her daughter Malwande (30) was preparing to bathe when the incident took place.

“It was after 19:00 when Malwande used the heater to warm the room while she was taking a bath. I was home in the kitchen when my 20-year-old son came from work and alerted us of the fire.

Only these walls were left after the fire. Photograph: Lucky Thusi

“I grabbed a blanket to quell the flames, however, it was too little too late. I only salvaged my phone and the clothes I was wearing. My bag where my ID, money and other particulars were perished in the fire. Although we managed to get out of the house unscathed, we still suffered a few burns,” explained Mahlambi.

She said the fire brigade took a long time to arrive. “I think it came three hours later.”

Some of the planks were salvaged. Photograph: Lucky Thusi

She is living with her friend nearby and pleads for help to get back on her feet.

“We only survive on grant money. I lost my job in 2015. My house was fully paid for. I only lapsed with the insurance during Covid-19, hence I can’t fix it. We need anything that people can donate from building materials to furniture and clothes.”

Any good Samaritan who wants to help may contact Mahlambi on 068 158 6357 or Sarah on 073 5492386.

Sbonisile Mahlambi says she wants to start with the foundation. Photograph: Lucky Thusi

At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Support local journalism

Add The Citizen as a preferred source to see more from Comaro Chronicle in Google News and Top Stories.

Related Articles

Back to top button