An extended family has found themselves homeless after a devastating fire destroyed their seven-bedroom home on Suva Street in Toorak on Monday evening. The property, managed by caretaker Maikeli Vulakeibau, 53, had been their residence for eight years, provided by Wesram Finance Fiji.
Mr. Vulakeibau recounted the harrowing moment when he received a call from his daughter at 5:50 PM, informing him of the blaze. He rushed back home within half an hour, only to discover that the flames had already ravaged the house. “I never thought something like this would happen,” he expressed, noting that strong winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
According to Mr. Vulakeibau, the fire was ignited in the kitchen due to a gas stove explosion, which occurred when his daughter accidentally turned it on while sparks from an electrical wire ignited the gas. Thankfully, she only sustained minor burns to her hand and arm during the ordeal and was able to escape.
Currently, the family has been given temporary shelter at the Marist Brothers Primary School hall. Looking ahead, Mr. Vulakeibau expressed his determination to rebuild their lives and home in Navua Village alongside his wife and children. This tragedy highlights the resilience of families facing unexpected disasters, as they navigate the challenges of recovery and rebuilding.