A Steiltes house started burning after it was reportedly struck by lightning last night, October 28, and a pet dog succumbed to smoke inhalation.

Despite the house still standing, everything inside was destroyed by the fire. It is suspected that the owners had gone out to watch the Rugby World Cup final when the incident occurred.

According to the City of Mbombela’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, the Mbombela Fire and Rescue team had received a call from one of the neighbours at about 23:00. Upon their arrival, they found the fire emerging from all over the house, including the thatch tile roof.

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Ngala said an investigation will be conducted to determine what caused the fire. He said the firefighters are currently on the scene to see to the fire.

Meanwhile, the homeowner, Rian Byleveldt, said he was shocked, but grateful to be alive, because had he been in the house when the fire started, things could have been worse.

He did not give much information, but promised to do so once everything was settled, as a part of the house is still burning.