BOPHELONG – In the wee hours of February 2, a 49-year-old man died in a horrific shack fire.

Vusumuzi Mbatha died inside his shack after it mysteriously caught fire.

While Vusumuzi tried to fight for his life, his two-room shack was engulfed in raging flames. Only his charred body was recovered.

While the family fails to accept his passing, dozens of questions linger in the minds of those who dearly loved him.

Speaking to Ster, family spokesperson Katleho Tsoeu (22) said: “We don’t know what transpired that left Vusumuzi’s shack in flames, but many questions hit us on what may have been the cause of the fire.”

Detailing moments before the horrific flames, Tsoeu explained: “I was reading a book when I suddenly heard the main switch trip and a helpless scream followed from outside. I went to investigate as I also heard loud bangs of corrugated steel.”

According to Tsoeu, they were met by raging flames engulfing Vusumuzi’s shack. “He continued to bang on the door in an attempt to escape. We called out for help from neighbours, who helped to put out the fire,” he said.

Moments after, Vusumuzi’s lifeless body was discovered behind the door, with one arm on his face.

“His burnt body showed signs of trying to block the flames. What I saw will never escape my mind. His hysteric cry still lingers in my head,” said the visibly shaken cousin.

With sorrow written all over her face, Vusumuzi’s sister, Bavelile Mhlongo (42), said her mother is left distraught.

“We are devastated. My mother on the other hand is left broken. She can’t come to terms with the horrific passing of her firstborn.”

Vanderbijlpark police spokesperson Sergeant Sabelo Sigcu confirmed an inquest case docket is under investigation.