A devastating fire in Levuka Settlement, off Bureta Street in Samabula North, claimed the life of a 20-year-old woman yesterday afternoon, marking the 13th fire-related fatality in Fiji this year. The National Fire Authority (NFA) received an emergency call at approximately 4 PM, prompting the immediate dispatch of two fire trucks from the Suva Fire Station.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the two-bedroom home, constructed from corrugated iron and timber, fully engulfed in flames. During their efforts to control the fire, they were informed that someone was trapped inside. Unfortunately, they located the young woman deceased once they gained access to the structure. The fire caused significant devastation, reducing the home—measuring around 10 by 11 meters—to approximately 95 percent loss.
The property, owned by a 70-year-old woman, was being rented by a 47-year-old barber at the time of the incident. Compounding the tragedy, the house was uninsured, creating an added burden for both the owner and the occupants.
Joel Israel, the acting CEO of the NFA, offered condolences, highlighting the severity of the tragedy occurring during the festive Christmas season. He assured that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire. Given the severity of the situation, firefighters had to implement water relay systems and utilized a nearby hydrant to successfully extinguish the blaze.
Witnesses at the scene described a harrowing situation as thick smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the house, leaving little time for anyone to respond effectively. Statistical data from the NFA indicates that of the 13 fire-related deaths this year, six were women, seven were men, with a majority being adults and one a child.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, the NFA has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting fire safety, urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly during the holiday season when the risk of fire incidents tends to increase.