Emdeni South family mourns three lives lost in house fire
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Three people died after a fire tore through a home in Emdeni South in the early hours of July 22, leaving the community mourning the loss of three lives.
The victims have been identified as Bonginkosi Mabuza (40), Thabile Mhlongo (36) and Nhlanhla Nhlapho (22).
Thembekile Mabuza told Soweto Urban News that Bonginkosi was her younger brother, while Mhlongo was a family friend and Nhlapho was Mhlongo’s friend.
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She said the family is still unsure what caused the fire but suspects it may have resulted from an electrical fault.
“I am still in disbelief. I never thought I would become a victim of such a tragedy. I am deeply hurt by what happened. I still feel like someone will wake me up and tell me this is just a bad dream and that everything will be fine. It is difficult to accept that this has really happened,” she said.
When the News arrived at the scene, community members had gathered at the house to help clean up and comfort the grieving family.
Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesperson Xolile Khumalo confirmed firefighters responded to reports of a structural fire at a four-room house in Emdeni South shortly after 03:00.
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She said firefighters found that the fire had affected the lounge area of the house.
“Three patients, comprising one adult male and two adult females, were declared deceased at the scene by Gauteng Provincial Government emergency medical personnel. The scene was assessed and secured,” she said.
Khumalo added that the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
She urged Johannesburg residents to exercise caution when using electrical appliances, ensuring they are operated safely and switched off when not in use.
“Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of residential fire incidents,” she said.
The City of Johannesburg EMS extended its condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones during this difficult time.
