Two fires leave one dead, one hurt
SEVERAL people were left displaced and one person died after two separate fires tore through homes in Gugulethu and Delft over the weekend.
The City’s Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, confirmed that one person died and another person sustained burn wounds in a blaze in Gugulethu in the early hours of Sunday.
The Fire and Rescue Service received an emergency call that shacks were alight in Bonga Street, Gugulethu, at about 12.20am.
“Fire crews from Lansdowne and Belhar were dispatched. The fire was contained and extinguished by 1am.
“While two informal structures were completely destroyed and one formal dwelling partially damaged, firefighters found the body of a 38-year-old man among the debris.
“Another 28-year-old man sustained second-degree burn wounds and was treated and taken to hospital.”
The cause of the fire has not been determined and the scene was handed over to the police.
In Delft South, the Fire and Rescue Service received an emergency call at about 5.20am on Sunday with the initial location as Palm Street.
Fire crews from Lansdowne, Belhar and Mfuleni were dispatched and the fire was extinguished at about 6.30am.
“Approximately 10 wood-and-iron structures were destroyed, and 32 people were left displaced.”
Carelse confirmed that no deaths or injuries had been reported. Live electrical wires were a major cause of concern and Eskom had been notified.
Sub-council chairperson Angus Mckenzie said: “We are appealing to the community to assist these families rebuild what has been destroyed both physically and emotionally have been lost in this devastating fire.”
Delft resident Zhandre Damons has been trying to collect donations.
“They need everything. Shelter, clothes, food, shoes and, if possible, furniture. Everyone connected on that light pole is without electricity, as the main pole caught fire as well.
“They need sanitation like toilets. It’s sad. Winter is on its way. We are facing a pandemic, and they just lost everything,” said Damons.
“If there is anyone out there that can assist, I think the main thing at this time would be shelter or material to rebuild, and some food and clothes.”
To assist, contact Damons on 065 145 3079.