Leandra mom survives petrol fire started by partner; toddler still in critical condition
The suspect succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital.
A 28-year-old woman from Leandra has been discharged from hospital after surviving a petrol fire allegedly started by her 30-year-old partner during a heated domestic dispute.
Tragically, the couple’s two-year-old child remains in critical condition.
According to Constable Nontobeko Ngubeni, the spokesperson for the Leandra SAPS, the incident occurred on June 12 at the family’s home in Lebohang.
Preliminary investigations by the Leslie SAPS suggest the man accused the woman of infidelity before allegedly dousing himself and the woman, who was holding their child at the time, with petrol. He then reportedly set them alight.
The woman and her child managed to escape and sought help from nearby relatives, who quickly contacted emergency services.
All three were rushed to hospital. Due to the severity of the toddler’s injuries, she was later transferred to a specialised medical facility for further treatment. The suspect succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Police have opened a case of attempted murder and registered an inquest docket to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Investigations are ongoing.
