BETHAL – Mr Patrick Sikhakhane, father of the three children suspected of causing the fire that killed an elderly woman on Saturday, 10 January in 5 Niemand Street, said the kids tried to light a candle when things went horribly wrong.
Ms Fakazile Mkhize (85) was sleeping in a bedroom when the fire broke out.
According to Mr November Radebe (neighbour), the mother of the children, Ms Jabu Mnomiya, told him that her house was burning and that she managed to rescue her three children, but that her grandmother was still inside the house.
He ran to the house and used a brick to break one of the windows.
“I called out, but there was no response,” he said.
“The fire was getting stronger while I was in the house and I could see nothing through the flames and smoke.”
Ms Mnomiya described her grandmother a humble person.
“I am still traumatised and sad,” she said
“We have lost everything and have to begin anew.”
According to her family she was a child of God and was always friendly.
“We accept this as God’s plan, because nothing happens without a reason,” said Mr Gerry Vilakazi, a nephew.
Ms Mkhize left behind her 11 grandchildren, friends and family.
The funeral was on Saturday, 17 January in eMzinoni.
