A tragic incident unfolded yesterday afternoon in Levuka Settlement, off Bureta Street in Samabula North, when a fire devastated a home, resulting in the death of a 20-year-old woman. This incident marks the 13th fire-related fatality in Fiji this year.
The National Fire Authority (NFA) received an emergency call at around 4 PM, leading to the immediate dispatch of two fire trucks from the Suva Fire Station. Upon their arrival, firefighters were confronted with a two-bedroom structure made of corrugated iron and timber, which was fully engulfed in flames.
During the firefighting efforts, officials were informed that a person was trapped inside the burning building. Despite the quick response, firefighters found the woman deceased within the property, once they were able to gain access. The fire caused extensive damage, leaving the house, which measured approximately 10 metres by 11 metres, with about 95 percent destruction.
The property belonged to a 70-year-old woman but was being rented by a 47-year-old barber at the time of the fire. Unfortunately, the house was not insured, adding to the loss experienced by the owner and occupants alike.
Joel Israel, the acting CEO of the NFA, expressed condolences, noting the tragedy occurring during the festive Christmas season. He emphasized that investigations into the incident’s cause are currently in progress. Due to the fire’s intensity, firefighters implemented water relay systems and accessed a nearby hydrant to aid in extinguishing the flames.
Witnesses from the surrounding area reported scenes of chaos as thick smoke and flames rapidly spread through the house, leaving little time for any effective intervention. NFA statistics reveal that, of the 13 fire-related deaths recorded this year, six were women and seven were men, with twelve of the victims being adults and one a child.
In light of this devastating event, the NFA has reiterated its call for the public to prioritize fire safety, especially during the holiday season when the likelihood of fire incidents increases.