Extension 3 family homeless after blaze
The fire engine left due to safety concerns but returned to assist in bringing the blaze under control. Frustrated residents tried to extinguish the fire by using the bucket system.
While many celebrated France winning the World Cup on the evening of July 15, an Extension Three family lost everything after a fire broke out in one of the bedrooms.
Like most people in Eldorado Park and across the world, the family of 12 were watching the World Cup final and just as the new football champions were crowned, they noticed flames coming from one of the bedrooms.
Elleanor Kruger (49) said that everyone was in the lounge when the fire broke out, “We were all watching the match but felt a sudden rush of extreme heat just as the final whistle was blown, then we saw the flames,” she said.
According to Kruger, the entire family immediately rushed outside to save themselves, leaving everything of value in the flat. “Neighbours immediately noticed the flames and tried to get a fire engine to help us. Some even drove to the fire station in Freedom Park to see if there was a truck available,” she said.
The Kruger family and eyewitnesses on the scene say that the fire engine took more than 45 minutes to arrive. When it eventually arrived, irate residents stoned the fire truck and the officials were questioned about their response time.
The fire engine left due to safety concerns but returned to assist in bringing the blaze under control. Frustrated residents tried to extinguish the fire by using the bucket system.
“We all came together and assisted. We collected water from neighbouring flats and eventually put out the fire ourselves, but it was too late. By the time the fire was put, out the family’s belongings were destroyed,” said the eyewitness.
The Kruger family spent their first night sleeping in cars and the children managed to sleep in beds made available by neighbours. “I am grateful that no-one was seriously injured. My sister inhaled quite a bit of smoke but she is okay,” said Elleanor.
Her son Shalin son said that the only item they were able to salvage was a framed photo of his late brother. The family has since received blankets and food items but are still without a place to call home.
