Witnesses speak out on the Eeufees Oord Old Age home fire
Witnesses recounted their experience of the fire that took place on July 12, and how it has affected them.
Yesterday, witnesses spoke out on the aftermath of the July 12 fire that destroyed a resident’s home at Eeufees Oord Old Age home, and what led up to it.
Arushaad Adriaanse, a Sophiatown resident known for his frequent assistance at the old age home, was nearby when he noticed the smoke around 15:00. “I heard a loud bang and saw smoke emanating from the home.” Rushing to the scene, he found the home engulfed in flames, with several residents attempting to extinguish the fire using garden hoses. He feared a secondary explosion would endanger residents’ lives.
Adriaanse noted that members from the TAU Control Room were present, and he inquired whether they had contacted the City of Johannesburg Emergency Services, which they had. He observed that, while residents were trying to help, there was no visible fire extinguishers on the premises. “I had to direct people to stay back due to the risk of smoke inhalation,” he added.
@caxtonjoburgnorth A video of the fire emanating from the home at Eeufees Oord Old Age Home on July 12, 2025. Video: Supplied #northcliffmelvilletimes #caxtonlocalmedia #firesafety #firefighters #breakingnews #fypシ゚viral #fyp ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Also read: Fire engulfs Eeufees Oord Old Age home
Despite the chaos, Adriaanse praised the professionalism and quick response of SCP Security Private Fire Search and Rescue and CoJ Emergency Services. However, he lamented the unfortunate loss suffered by the resident, who lost everything in the fire. “I’m glad that everyone is safe, but it’s heartbreaking to see someone lose their home.”
Marisca Venter, another witness, shared her experience of the fire. Sitting around the corner, whilst her daughter was playing in front of her home, she saw the smoke coming from the house. Venter said that witnessing the fire hit her hard. She was also sad that someone lost all their belongings, and their home.
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