Residents were left heartbroken as a fire broke out in the early hours of this morning in Matholesville, Roodepoort.

The incident was reported to the City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Medical Services (CoJEMS) around 03:00 and said that a family of three (two adults and one child) lost their lives when their informal dwelling caught fire.

The cause of the fire is still unknown and under investigation, but CoJEMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi in a media release asked the public to be extra cautious, especially during the winter season.

“During these extremely cold temperatures, residents are encouraged to continue to look after all heating devices while in use to prevent fire incidents at home,” Mulaudzi said.

No other injuries have been identified and the cause of the fire is under investigation.