A community mourned after a devastating house fire claimed the life of an 8-year-old disabled girl tragically, Mother’s Day.
The fire broke out in Rustenburg North, while the area was struggling with both electricity cuts and water shortages. Neighbours tried desperately to help, but they were left helpless.
“I still hear her cries. Her screams for her parents. I stood in the yard, powerless. We had no water. No electricity. Nothing. We just needed one – water or power – to save her life. But we had none,” one heartbroken neighbour shared, her voice shaking. “I have children of my own. I keep hearing her little voice echoing. I’m angry. I’m heartbroken. We were helpless.”
Another resident described how they rushed to give what water they had in their tank, handing it over a wall to someone trying to douse the flames. “He threw the water onto the fire, but the tank was nearly empty. We had no way to pump more without power. Our hands were cut off.”
Witnesses say the fire may have been caused by a candle during the blackout, but this is not yet confirmed. Investigations by the Rustenburg Fire Department and police are ongoing.
“It’s gut-wrenching,” said another neighbour. “That beautiful little soul didn’t deserve this. No one does. Especially not a child. Especially not on Mother’s Day. This entire community is shattered.”
By the time the fire department reached the scene, the roof of the room had already started to collapse. They managed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring homes – but it was too late for the young girl, who is believed to have died from smoke inhalation and heat exposure.
In the aftermath, grief turned to rage. One resident, speaking the next day as power returned, said, “I don’t want electricity anymore. What use is it now? Where was it when we needed it most? Take back your power. We lost one of our own.”
The fire has left the community not only heartbroken, but demanding answers.
“We want justice. This was inhumane. A disabled child died, trapped and calling for help while we stood powerless. This should never happen to anyone.”
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Updated: 26 May 2025 Monday
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