A devastating shack fire claimed the lives of a mother and her two young daughters in Phase 7, Bloemfontein, on Friday night. The fire, believed to have been caused by a candle left burning during load shedding, engulfed the family’s home while they were asleep.
The 40-year-old mother and her daughters, aged eight and three, tragically lost their lives in the blaze. The family’s eldest son, who is in his twenties, had reportedly locked the shack and gone to the shops when the incident occurred. Upon his return, he was met with the horrifying sight of their home consumed by flames and his family trapped inside.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but unfortunately, it was too late to save the three victims. Neighbors and community members gathered in shock and grief, unable to comprehend the tragic loss that had just struck their neighborhood.
Free State Premier Macqueen Letsoha-Mathae visited the grieving family to offer condolences and support. Speaking to the media, the Premier expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured the family of government assistance during this painful time.
“So we are very, very sad. This is one of those traumatic incidents, really—losing three family members is not easy. We understand the pain this family is going through. That’s why we are here as the government to offer our condolences, but also to help them. We will assist them with obtaining new documents because everything was destroyed in the fire,” Letsoha-Mathae said.
The Premier further announced that the provincial government would cover the funeral expenses and provide counseling services to the family as they attempt to cope with the loss.
Incidents like these have once again highlighted the dangers many communities face during frequent power outages. Load shedding forces residents to rely on unsafe light sources such as candles, which increase the risk of deadly fires—especially in densely populated informal settlements where shacks are closely packed and highly flammable materials are used for construction.
The community of Phase 7 is now mourning the loss of three innocent lives. Neighbors described the mother as a kind and caring woman who worked hard to provide for her children. Her sudden passing, along with her daughters, has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her.
Authorities have urged residents to be extra cautious when using open flames during load shedding and to explore safer alternatives where possible. However, many in the area have pointed out that poverty leaves them with little choice but to rely on candles for light.
As the family prepares to lay their loved ones to rest, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by many South Africans living in informal settlements and the need for more sustainable solutions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The provincial government’s intervention and support bring some relief to the bereaved family, but the pain of losing a mother and two children will take a long time to heal.