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A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Rustenburg Noord in the early hours of Sunday, 11 May 2025, when a fire claimed the life of a young girl. Police in Tlhabane have confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened, as the matter was reported at their station. The case is under investigation by Detective Sergeant David Kgokong of Tlhabane SAPS.
According to preliminary information, the fire broke out at approximately 04:00 am while a couple and their three children were asleep in their rented room. It is alleged that the family had been using a candle for lighting due to a power outage and left it burning when they went to bed.
The mother reportedly woke up to the fire and managed to rescue her partner, along with their nine-year-old daughter and two-year-old son, who are believed to have suffered smoke inhalation. Tragically, the couple’s second daughter, born in 2017, was unable to escape and was burned beyond recognition.
The survivors are currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.
Police also noted that a gas cylinder inside the room may have exploded during the incident, which could have worsened the fire. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.
“This is a deeply tragic incident. Our condolences go out to the family. We urge residents to take extra care when using candles or gas during power outages,” said a Tlhabane SAPS spokesperson.
The name of the deceased child has not been released pending formal identification and notification of extended family members. Authorities are appealing to anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist the ongoing investigation.
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